Christian Living

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Larry Lilly's Letter Wednesday November 8, 2006

Donna Brown a nice lady from our church sent me a long list of neat sayings that someone had sent to her via the Internet. It has a lot of really good sayings that I wish I had thought of first. One offering that is right on for our times recent:

"I believe, that no matter how good a friend is, they’re going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that."

Cute saying, right?

Putting it into practice may be even cuter?

For instance the statement of James Dobson on the mess his friend Ted Haggard dove into. By Ted's own admission he did not fall into sin, he dove in head first. Pun intended.

When the news of Mr. Haggard's dalliance began to break, Jim Dobson said, as should any friend, "Ted has been my close friend for many years. He has been used mightily to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Colorado Springs and around the world. He will continue to be my friend, even if the worst allegations prove accurate."

I admit to not remembering hearing even the name, Ted Haggard, most likely due to my near total abstention from the political scene nationally. This is because I believe all of the efforts by the so called religious right, end in the hands of elected politicians who betray them as one member of the inner circle of the current 'ruling class' stated merely "use them, the religious conservatives, as suckers." I did not reach this conclusion yesterday. And yes, I really did fall off a turnip truck but that was not last night.

"He will continue to be my friend, even if the worst allegations prove accurate."

Dr. Dobson now in the glaring public light will have the chance to prove his statement by simply living up to it. And I hastily add, I think he will do just that, for of all the things I have heard about Dr. Dobson, I know of no one who would accuse him of failure to keep his word.

I have to tell you that I do not know Ted Haggard therefore I do not have the burden of remaining a friend even though the accusations have proven to be painfully true.

I have to also tell you that James Dobson, or as the kids who do not like his stern advice to their parents call him, 'Dr. Doboson' is putting me to shame on this one.

I wonder if the good Dr. spent any time wondering, "What will my 'Squeaky clean' friends think of me if I stand by Ted?"

It would be nice to have friends who never need forgiving. Your friends should live so long.

Larry Lilly Copyright © 2006 Use with credit.

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