This past week I was in Washington D.C. while the story broke about the intent to repeal the military’s 16-year old “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy. I actually don’t feel I can make an educated comment on the topic because I have never been in the military and have no idea how it may impact critical operations the military carries out. I do however feel we all need to be part of a community where we can feel comfortable talking to one another, regardless of the topic and regardless of our answers.
I grew up in a church where discussions of our problems were discouraged unless you were behind closed doors with an elder of the church. I never had a relationship with any elder that made me feel comfortable discussing serious issues that weighed heavy on my heart.
At Citywalk, I feel we have established a community where not only can any topic be discussed, but it will be discussed with grace, love and understanding – not judgment or ridicule. In fact, I think we have an “Ask and Tell” policy. I can’t tell you how many days I have been feeling down and someone has walked up to me, looked me in the eyes and asked, “Is everything OK? Do you want to talk?” Sometimes I do, sometimes I don’t, but it is so comforting to know that I belong to a community that both asks and allows me to tell!
When we talk about taking hold of and living out the way of Jesus, are we taking the time to stop and listen with compassion and without judgment? Are we willing to open our hearts and speak our pain to those in our community? With the relationships I have established in our community I know I can “Ask and Tell!”
