Malcolm Gladwell’s ‘Revisionist History’ podcast by the same title, eloquently tells the moving story of Chester Wenger (a 98 year old Mennonite pastor) who was banished from his church for officiating his son, Phil’s, same-sex marriage. No easy task for an old pastor whose views and beliefs were grounded in tradition, and the teachings of the bible.
Orthodox because of Mr. Wingers commitment to his faith and his church for almost his entire life. Generous, because of his willingness to embrace his son’s choices with little concern for the fall out. I guess when we have God deeply rooted in our hearts and in our lives, no Church, Synagogue, Mosque, or Temple, can ever take that away from us.
We live in a cynical, self absorbed world. We see conflict through a judgement lens, where everything is black and white. Life, unfortunately is painted in many hues of gray. There is a lesson here for all of us. We can still hold on to our traditions, yet embrace a generosity of spirit that allows people to live their lives. If Mr. Wenger can do it, we can certainly try…..
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