I hate to jump on the bandwagon of a church scandal. However, I have a different take on the situation. I will neither condemn or defend the Bishop. I know the situation is serious and appears grim. I look at it as an example of God's love and grace. The Lord chaseneth who He loves. When we are involved in sin the Lord convicts our hearts. Many times we ignore that gentle nudge that lets us know we are going down a wrong path. If ignored for too long, the Lord at times will "pull the cover off", so to speak. If this happens, it is not because He has turned His back on us or that He no longer loves us. The opposite is true. He loves us so much that He will do whatever it takes to get our attention and give us an opportunity to be back in good fellowship with Him. Once again, let me emphasize that I am not speaking of Bishop Long's guilt or innocence.
My heart goes out to all those involved in the scandal. This is the ultimate test of faith for everyone. Whether or not the Bishop is guilty, this scandal has altered his reputation. The scandal has the potential to rock his faith and the faith of everyone affected. I pray that for the Bishop, his family, church members and the alleged victims that their faith fail them not. This is a lesson for all of us not to glory in flesh. Any of us are subject to fall at any given moment. We are human and are going to make mistakes. We need to remember that before we point fingers and make disparaging remarks about the Bishop. A guest speaker at my church last week said that if the Lord were to materialize a huge video screen and play the film of our lives many of us would have to leave to avoid embarrassment or worse. As humorous as that visual is, it is thought provoking. All have sinned and fallen short of God's glory. Let me clarify, my previous point does not give us license to sin, but hope that if we do we are redeemable.
The scandal gives us all pause to evaluate where we stand spiritually and get anything right that needs to be corrected. Let's take an honest look at the man or woman in the mirror. Bishop Long is set to address his congregation this morning. Stand with me in prayer for all involved that the ultimate outcome be stronger walks with the Lord, and that wherever needed there be deliverance and healing.
J
