Rev Bill

One of the events I’m late in commenting on is the whole mess with Ted Haggard. By now you all know about Ted — who he is, what he did, etc. (If not click on his name for the link to a Wiki Pedia article.)

What is there to say about the whole mess?

Does it give the media an opportunity to “bash” Christians? Yes.

Does it give non Christians “ammunition” in the “why I don’t like Christians” argument? Yes.

Does it show that even the most respected of leaders are human — and have to watch what they say and do — especially when it seems that no one else is looking? Yes.

Does it show that Ted Haggard — regardless of how much he has done for God — is human — and a sinner? Yes.

Does it mean that we should condemn Haggard and turn our backs on him? No.

For all the great things he has done — Ted Haggard is a sinner. But — so am I — so are you — and so is everyone else. It is a tragedy for Ted, his family, his ministry, and for all Christians that this has happened — but in the midst of the tragedy there must be forgiveness — and there must be an opportunity for Ted to find help for his problems. I pray that the “restoration process” that is being planned for him will help him find healing.

I read a story one time about a monk who was caught in some sin and brought to the abbot of the monastary. Everyone expected the abbot to kick him out. The abbot stood, and announced that he, too, was a sinner, and stood with the monk.

Jesus taught us to show love to others — not condemn them — and remember that none of us are without sin. I hope I can remember that when I think about folks like Ted Haggard — and others whose sins may be more public than mine.

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