To the Readers' Forum:
I am writing this letter in response to a Readers' Forum letter concerning the unbiblical actions of our president.
First let me say that, like the letter writer, I too am an Evangelical Christian, believing in living everyday the teachings of our Savior through the power of His Holy Spirit. That, however, seems to be where our similarities end.
President Obama did not say he was a Christian to pander for votes. He brought up his personal relationship with the Lord because he was being accused by "Christians," even before he took office, of being a Muslim, although in a country that professes, by law, freedom of religion it should make no difference what faith he professes. But that is a question of constitutional history which should be a topic the letter writer could take up another day. However, I digress from the "unbiblical"charges that the president was accused of.
If I look at this president's actions over the last 3 years , to call his actions unbiblical, I must be reading from a different Bible.
This president truly believes in the innate worthiness of all peoples and shows by his actions that to "love ones neighbor" means all people regardless of race, color, creed, sexual orientation or economic status This is what I read in my Bible and is what I understand my Lord to be teaching. It is not easy to do, as we know, because differences can be challenging, to say the least.
I fear that this inclusionary virtue of our President is what may really be underlying the misunderstanding of this president, branding him as a radical in much the same way Jesus was branded for His love of all people in His day, touching the lepers, befriending prostitutes and tax collectors much to the consternation of a few of the religious elites of His time. I am also reminded of our Lord's commandment to us to turn the other cheek. This president is the epitome of that commandment in action, having been attacked since day one but yet holding steady to his beliefs in the equality and worthiness of all.
It would appear that perhaps not much has really changed over the last 2,000 years with our differences separating us and being celebrated much more than our similarities. I for one prefer to choose to love God and all my neighbors.
Rick Huber
Executive Director
Mental Health Association
Chautauqua County