It's About Time, and Now It's Time for People of Faith to Speak Loudly!

I was quite distraught at the Supreme Court ruling concerning the Voting Rights Act. I don't disagree, necessarily, with the court striking down the part of the law that they did, but rather, with the prospect of having to count on Congress to rectify it. They were warned by the Court several years ago that the act was in jeopardy and needed updating. Congress did what it has done most of late, nothing.But today, I found great comfort in the Supreme Court's striking down a key provision of the Defense of Marriage Act.The court ruled that the United States cannot have one standard of recognition for some folks who are legally married, but not for others. The court did not go so far as to rule that all states must recognize same-gender marriage, but that, in states where it is legal, partners in same-gender marriages are entitled to the same federal benefits as are different gender partners. Now for the hard part: the communities of faith must take a leadership role in keeping the momentum going. I am hopeful, even, that the church in which I was ordained will have to deal with the unceasing demands of some of its members that justice be served by lifting the ban on same-gender marriages, among other things. United Methodists used to be church folks known for bold actions on human rights. In the last thirty years, we have become shadows of our former selves. We have become acculturated and, in many ways, are being held captive to the religious right. I have spoken out in my church for years on full acceptance of all people, and I am not hopeful that such welcome will occur in my lifetime. So, I will speak out even more loudly, not just for full inclusion of all people, but for bold action on social and environmental justice issues. The prophetic imperative has never been lifted from the church, and we are to act as Christ's agents, to bring peace and equality to any places that we are able. If enough of us strive for change, it cannot help but come. So let's put on our walking shoes and lift high our voices. The Prince of Peace will come, and we can help pave the way!