Ducking the real issue

The virtual world has been a buzz with the Duck Dynasty fervor. Although I do Not agree with the statements that was made in the article, there is a much bigger issue than the fate of a "redneck reality show" that I have never had any desire to watch. I do not like reality shows of any kind. To me they are the lowest form of "entertainment". Now for the larger issue: The religion of exclusion. What is more important? The impact of our words on people, causing them to believe they are excluded form the Love of God or the actions of a network that may cost a celebrity millionaire their job? Now setting aside the Duck Dynasty issue, the reason it has sparked so much controversy is because a bigger issue is beneath. For too long religion has hijacked the name of God and used it to promote it own brand and interpretation of God's message. Christianity has become more about worship of the Bible and each groups pet interpretation based on their agenda, and to hell with whoever does not fit into this mold (literally). This is so far from the message of Christ. When your beliefs or religion excludes or persecutes a particular group of people, your religion has ceased from being Christian. It has become the very kind of religion and hypocrisy that Christ did condemn in his day. Christ came not to form a religion, political party or holiday, but rather to bring a message of Good News to the World. This message is that God loves everybody and that ALL are "saved" ( in good relationship or standing with God) through the work of Christ and not because they go to the right church or live a life that is approved by the self-righteous. What does he ask of his followers? Simply to love one another! Jesus said that the world would know his followers because of this Love. What passes for Christianity today does not for the most part resemble this teaching and that is a shame. What is the result of this? Simply that Christianity has become a laughing stock of the world. It has become obsolete. It has done more to promote the growth of an Atheist movement than any other factor. You know what is not obsolete and still just as powerful as it was ever to change lives? Love! Whether you gay or straight, Muslim or Christian, American or Iranian, Jewish or Gentile, we all were created to Love and be loved. God understands that this is the key to life and we the church would do well to finally get this lesson. Love can change the world. I may not agree with you or understand you, but I can love you. SO lets stop saving Christmas, bashing Obama, hating gays, and start loving each-other! This would change the world! But if you are not willing to do this, then for God's sake- hate in your own name and stop hiding under the skirt of religion! You do not have to agree with me, but you are commanded to love me!