Pray that Love Wins Over Hate

The news first circulated through social media that Westboro Baptist Church’s founder, Fred Phelps was on his deathbed and now, the news comes that he has died.  At the age of 84, this Kansas pastor of hate has died.  These reports come from Phelps’ estranged son who also shared his father had been excommunicated from the church he created in the 1955 because he wanted the church members to treat each other in kinder ways.

Now, the word “kinder” is not a word many would associate with this group.  After all, the Westboro Baptist Church gained a reputation over the years for its unkind public protests.  Their bright signs with mean-spirited messages have been seen throughout this nation and around the world. 

You have seen the signs.  Signs reading, “God Hates F*GS”, “Pray for More Dead Soldiers”, “Thank God for Sept. 11”, God Hates America” … and there are unfortunately many more disturbing signs.  In reading these signs, it simply makes the heart ache.  Each sign is aimed at causing pain to particular groups of people.

With these signs, the Westboro Baptist Church protested in the 1980-90’s at the funerals of AIDS victims as well as notable persons such as brutally murdered Matthew Sheperd.  Then in the past decade or so, they expanded their protests to include the funerals of military service men and women who died in battle. 

With the death of Fred Phelps, some express their views online about what the response should now be.  Some call for extending to his family to same hatred he gave so many.  Others call for a different kind of protest where grace and love are extended.  And yet others call for everyone to look away and give no attention to the passing of this man; any kind of attention, negative or positive, is too much attention.

In my opinion, Fred Phelps was a sad and pathetic man.  It is impossible, at least for me to guess what led him to feel the way he does about certain people.  I cannot understand why someone would do what he and his followers have done.  These protests are cold and heartless.   I have twice experienced the protests of the Westboro Baptist Church.   I can attest that not only are their signs vile, but so is their speech.   Speaking to them is a worthless endeavor. 

In my heart, I pray for the soul of Mr. Phelps and those who follow his teachings.  For Fred, I pray that in death he may experience the radical love and grace of God.  I pray that all their hearts of stone may be broken. And in doing so, God might help them let go of the anger and judgment of others and learn to embrace all as children on God.  I know people will say these are hopeless, even wasted prayers, but I pray it anyway.  I trust in a God who can break hearts of stone.

While Phelps’ message was beyond extreme, may it remind us to be a people of love, not of hate.  While some in society are challenged, some seemingly threatened by people who are different than themselves, let us all find the heart within to love one another.  Let us put aside judgment and extend compassion.  Let us commit to not put one another down.  Rather, let us lift each other up. 

As Star Trek actor George Takei posted on Facebook, “I take no solace or joy in this man's passing. We will not dance upon his grave, nor stand vigil at his funeral holding "God Hates Freds" signs, tempting as it may be.  He was a tormented soul, who tormented so many. Hate never wins out in the end. It instead goes always to its lonely, dusty end.”

It is no secret, there is hatred and prejudice around us.  It is easiest to see that in those who picket funerals and hold up signs of hate, but there is too much hate in our world.  It has been there for many years.  Some have experienced that hate firsthand in their lives. 

But might we here and now work together to put an end to all forms of discrimination?   I have that commitment.  Can I count on you as well?

So, as I pray for the soul of Fred Phelps, I pray for us all in that our hearts might be open to all people.  I believe it is possible for love to prevail; I believe love wins ultimately.

As Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, "I have decided to stick with love.  Hate is too great a burden to bear."

So, I guess if I were to have a sign to hold out in public for the world to see it would simply say, “Love Wins.”  

Please join with me.

Blessings,

Pastor John

Imperial Beach United Methodist Church

455 Palm Avenue

Sunday Worship

9am – 30 minute worship with Holy Communion

10:30am – 60 minute worship with Child Care provided

Email Pastor John at JonEdwin@aol.com