So Many Thoughts

I definitely missed last week’s Sunday-Blog-Day, and as far as today is concerned, I am cutting it pretty close… *slaps forehead*

Nonetheless, to collect all of my reflections from the past two weeks within one post would not work out so well. Instead, what I think I will do is allow my fingers to simply type what comes to mind.

Yesterday, for the first time, I attended the Pride Parade in downtown Columbus. I know what some readers are already thinking- “Why bring this up? Why go? Why talk about this topic?” I know this because I used to be one of those people. Now I ask “Why not?”

Due to the recent events we have heard about on the news, I was super anxious about going. In fact, at the time, I was not sure if it was wise to attend. Rather than dwell on it, I took it to God in prayer.

A day later, I felt this urge within my spirit that said, “No matter who disagrees, no matter who comments, no matter how it appears…I want you to truly love.” Honestly, God never clearly said “Go to Pride Parade.” I wanted Him to, but He did not, and because He did not give an explicit answer, I still was not sure what I was supposed to do. So, I did what typically happens to Bethany in situations of trying to discern: I stepped out in faith.

(I am not a supporter or fan of debate, so this is a huge step I am taking on blogging about the beliefs I have on this topic)

The reason I went to Pride Parade is because I think Jesus would have gone. When God put into my spirit that I was to ‘truly love,’ I do not think I personally could have done so by sitting back. Since I have never placed myself in the midst of such an event, I had no idea what to expect, but I expected God to continue challenging me (especially since He already challenged me to go and truly love).

I will forever be thankful for the opportunity to be humbled and stretched in my faith because I chose to combat my selfish desires, fears, and former beliefs. I have extremely close friends in the LGBTQ community and I love them dearly. I sincerely want to apologize if I have ever misrepresented Jesus Christ by not truly loving. I know that I still have along way to go in my understandings, but I am confident that Pride Parade was my next step to learning how to love.

The concept of #LoveWins is actually quite biblical if you think about it. In my reflections, God reminded me that in sending Jesus to die, sin, evil and death all have no hold on the grave. Jesus has risen because His love won and conquered all. Hallelujah!

Why is it that the smiles and dancing and celebrating I observed at Pride Parade seemed so much more authentic and real than that which I have experienced within many circles of fellow believers?

Again, I write all of these thoughts in the realm of caution, because I do not like to stir the pot, but simply want to personally be a better example of what many “Christians” have mistakenly portrayed. I have seen what true love is, and I have also seen what people think true love is. Unfortunately, the line is growing more and more unclear.

I want everyone around me to know that I am a follower of Jesus Christ because of how I love(John 13:35). Pride Parade opened my eyes and heart and I am overwhelmingly thankful.

Do I think homosexuality is right? -no I do not. But, that will never prevent me from listening, living with, and loving those who chose the lifestyle.

(6.18.16. My best friend, Laura, who invited me to Pride Parade)