I did not sign. I knew about this
letter. I knew about the events leading up to this
letter. I know that Asian Americans are often misjudged, misunderstood, and everything else that is “mis”-sed under the sun. However, I in good conscience, could not put my name to this.
In fact, in many ways I was appalled at the letter. The tone of the letter was that of a blunt instrument. I found no elegance, no sophistication, and no care in some of the things it was trying to communicate. In other words, it was law without grace.
How can we demand of people a right to our voice when most of them do not have a clue as to the true nature of the issue? A panel in Christianity Today? Why?
To be sure, there needs to be dialogue on the issues. Reform needs to be made, not a panel. When Luther posted the 95 Theses on that door in Wittenberg it was not a rough cut into the cloth of the abuses of the church. It was the cry of a man with a scalpel who sought to cut out the particular cancers ailing the church.
If we are to be harsh, let it be with surgical purpose. If we are to begin the dialogue, let us not demand it but rather stand on the merits of its necessity.
Let our words speak for themselves. Let our witness be of grace. Let our witness be of understanding. Let it be winsome. But let it be clear and helpful lest change for the truth is not willing to be made. After all, Luther’s goal was not schism, but reform. Only out of conscience and exhausted effort was it a necessity.
If you wish to comment on "the letter" or react I would encourage you to submit your thoughts here. Let your voice be heard on the matter. It's a good thing.
