Out of Control

A Christian fundamentalist, who runs a camp to "cure" homosexuality, sends "missionaries" to Uganda to help that country get a death penalty for being gay. The governor of Kansas rejects the theory of evolution and, with it, DINOSAURS. Everything that comes out of Pat Robertson's mouth but, most recently, the earthquake that sent Haiti into a downward spiral of crises was God's punishment for the Haitian people's deal with the devil. The United Methodist Church passes, by only 50 votes beeteedub, the statement that "homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching."

When the Christian right doesn't speak out against the above, it's sad. When the Christian left doesn't, it's dangerous. A recent NPR story purported the death of the liberal movement. Death is a strong word. I'd say...failure. The liberal voice is failing. Some don't speak because they don't want to lose their jobs. Well, I've already lost mine and don't want it back. Others don't speak out of a commitment to "can't we all just get along" so deep that they consider as absolutely anathema ever uttering the words, "You're wrong." I've never been one to mince words.

And so, I launch Toward a Rational Faith. Selfishly, I need to return to the world of...um...what is it...thinking! And I decided to use my current journey of theological thought as far as it can go. What is my current journey of theological thought, I hear you ask? Well, here it is: Biblical literalism and fundamentalism has gotten out of control and there has to be a space between the world of blind faith and rational thought. This passe, soooo 2005 blog will explore that space.

Ground rules: I'm a social liberal, and all posts will come from that perspective. However, you would be surprised at how fiscally and politically conservative I am. Rational arguments against my points will be accepted, insults will not. I am arrogant, every blogger is a little bit, and opinionated. I believe my opinions are the right ones, otherwise they wouldn't be my opinions. Anyone can comment, but I'm going through the trouble of carefully editing the upcoming essays so as to keep the offense to a minimum. I ask that you do the same. Oh, one more, on this blog "'cause the Bible says so" does not count as a rational argument.

Coming up: creationism, providence, innovative theology, family values, socialism, homosexuality, "personal" Savior, grace, music.

Love God with all your heart, soul, strength and MIND.

Brad