Truth Over Tolerance

from Pastor Ron Tipton:

Amy and I voted today (dropped off our ballots) for the 2024 election.  Since that is done, I wish I could opt out of all the election ads, signs, texts, media takes and poll predictions!  It is overwhelming, and the deceit and outright lies — as well as the mudslinging and name calling — are simply not a good look for any elected representative of our great country.  Yet this is how far we have fallen in our civil actions and our civic understanding as a country and as a people.  

We no longer have discussions and debates over ideas, but degradation of persons and denunciation of basic rights to be heard.  I wish I could just turn it all off!!!  But I cannot. And if I am to live here I cannot give in to the temptation to grab a handful of mud and join the animals in the mud fight.  I am called to a higher standard: to represent the Lord Jesus Christ in my thoughts, actions and words.  As much as I wish Jesus would just come and take me home, if I am to be light I must be where the darkness is so that I can shine, and shine bright for His Kingdom and glory. 

Elmer spoke yesterday of respect, and as he did, the word “tolerance” came to my mind.  In my civics classes I learned that tolerance in America was the attitude (or right we gave to others) to have a different opinion than mine, but I would hear them out and they would hear me out.  We might disagree, but that didn’t mean we had to be disagreeable.  In fact, we could be friends. (Think back to Ronald Reagan and Tip O’Neill.)  But it did require an openness to hear and care about the other person.  We no longer have this in our country.  We shout down, heckle and eliminate opportunities for those who are not in lockstep with us.  But beware: when the group drifts, you better drift, too, or you will be left on the outside and no longer tolerated.  

So what do we do?  Join the group of devoted followers of Christ where the truth never wavers or drifts.  Until Jesus comes, shine brightly for His Kingdom and His truth, never compromising either, but instead loving, serving and caring for others to the glory of His praise.  We never tolerate sin, but we never refuse to listen to the broken and hurting heart who desperately needs Jesus.  I heard long ago to never join the parade until you know who the grand marshal is. (And. I would add, if they are following Jesus.) 

No matter the outcome of this election, Jesus will still be Lord.  He is still coming back for His own.  And He is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords of the Kingdom that never ends.  That’s my hope, my security and my life.