Imagine Together: God Transforms Our Hearts
Rev. Dr. Leslie Taylor, preaching
Sometimes, when we read scripture, we realize it was written for a different time and culture. This week is one of those weeks. One of the harsh words Nehemiah says is that the people will not marry anyone outside of their race, religion, and culture. This was written when the people believed they were about to face extinction and wanted to ensure they could maintain their religion and culture. These are harsh words today, and I disagree with them for many reasons. I am sure many of you would disagree with them as well. So, why did I include it? I considered excluding that verse, but I would rather wrestle with how we understand God, God's love for us, God’s love of diversity, and our love for each other.
We now live in a time when many people believe one can love who they love and marry the person they love, regardless of race, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation. In 1967, in Loving v. Virginia, the Supreme Court invalidated state laws that banned interracial marriage. Nearly fifty years later, in Obergefell v. Hodges, the Supreme Court invalidated state laws that banned same sex marriage. We now understand that diversity is a gift, including diversity of thought. In our church, we celebrate the diversity of our members and friends. We celebrate the fact that all are welcome and that all really does mean ALL! When this congregation voted to become an Open and Affirming congregation in 1992, I am sure there was a lot of discussion and diversity of opinions. Still, God's love for all — God's unconditional love for everyone, transformed hearts. Imagine what will happen when we allow God to transform our hearts!
This text also contains a helpful message: the people gather to support the Temple's work and ministry. As we continue with our Stewardship focus, we are reminded that it takes our heads, hearts, and hands to imagine together what God can do with our offering. Your ongoing support of our mission and ministry helps to create a safe space for all to worship God.
Based on Nehemiah 10:1, 28-39
Music this week:
There’s a Light
Lord, I Give You My Heart
Create in Me a Clean Heart
Be Still
Take My Life
Come Share the Lord