Beloveds,
Sometimes, it can be difficult to hold onto these two words: “Love Wins.” The Supreme Court just handed down an 8-1 ruling that rejects Colorado’s (and other states’) ban on conversion therapy. Every major medical and mental health organization in the United States – including the American Medical Association, American Psychological Association, and American Academy of Pediatrics – condemns conversion therapy. These bodies deem it ineffective, dangerous, and unethical. These practices are associated with depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidality. Specialized LGBTQ+ 988 (Suicide Hotline) counseling was removed by the current administration. Access to gender-affirming healthcare for minors, and adults in the United States has been significantly restricted through federal actions, proposed rules, and state-level bans. We are each of us “zero degrees of separation” from someone who these hateful actions harm. And yet Easter is ahead of us: Love rises – Hate does not win.
Dr. Marcia McFee of Worship Design Studio writes this: “In the end (or is it the beginning?), love wins. All things of this world pale in comparison to what resurrection looks like in our lives. Newfound meaning, purpose, attention, wholeheartedness, wellbeing, peace: these are the things that matter –the things the Teacher shows us. And no matter how many ‘wrong places’ we’ve looked for love, the graves give way to the light of a new day as we learn to love as Christ loves us.”
Yes, we’ve a lot to learn. And we know the goodness that is God.
I look forward to seeing you at 10 am Sunday on 1130 Balclutha, Zoom, or Livestream as we celebrate the Easter Story from the Gospel of John 20:1-18. Bring a friend to share in the joy.
Love does win,
Rev. Michael