Why Rick Warren is a Good Pick

I know that I'm in the minority on this, but I do think that Barack Obama may have been wise in choosing Rick Warren. Again, I don't think that it reflects a shift in Obama's views on homosexuality or any other issue. I do think that he has made a shrewd decision to reach into the other side and bring them into the discussion.

We who embrace interfaith dialog/work often reach out across boundaries because we believe that the world will be better for it. We don't always agree on every issue. But we do it, because we know we must. And as we do this, we come to better understand our neighbor.

And, to those who are complaining about Warren's views, or the fact that he is at least in background, Southern Baptist, remember that the Presbyterians, Methodists, and American Baptists are in the same place. The Disciples, my denomination, have no policy, leaving it up to congregations -- but at the national level (we call it General because of a small contingent of Canadian churches that are affiliated) we simply have agreed not to talk about it openly.

So, maybe what we have is an opportunity.

Today I read this piece by Frank Schaeffer, son of Francis Schaeffer and former bigwig among conservative evangelicals. Like me he has moved to a different place, and like me is both pro-gay and pro-Obama. His piece in the Huffington Post is entitled: "Obama Was Right to Pick Warren" He writes:

In inviting Warren, President-elect Obama is sending a signal that as President he is going to stick with resolve to doing the tough things when it comes to using some political capital on behalf of the gay community. He knows symbols are important and is softening the blow for the vast number of evangelicals to whom Warren is a hero.


So, his conclusion -- pipe down, give Obama room to work, and see what happens! I agree. Remember there always gradations of ideology. Warren is on the Right, but not the far right. He's made really regrettable statements, and I'm not a fan, but he is an important voice -- give him his place and let's see what takes place from here.

Comments

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Gene said…
Notice how the liberals are scrutinizing the actions of their own immensely-popular elected official? That's how it's supposed to be done, Republicans.
Anonymous said…
What does Warren have on Obama? Or what does Obama have on Warren?
Robert Cornwall said…
You know, I think that Obama has been at Saddleback a couple of times, and while he disagrees with Warren on a number of issues, including homosexuality, he likes the guy. He's not going to go to him for spiritual guidance. He's not going to embrace his positions. But he thought it would be a nice gesture.

So, lots of people are upset. Do you think he'll give in and disinvite? If he did, what would you think? You'd probably think he was weak. Don't expect him to disinvite, no matter how many petitions you sign and send.

Like I say, let's all get over it. It's just a perfunctory prayer demanded by the occasion!
John said…
Bob,

It could be just a perfunctory prayer. But then again, is any prayer delivered in earnest ever a perfunctory prayer?

John

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