So here in lil' ol' New Zealand there has been a big change. The Definition of Marriage Amendent Bill has been passed, with a majority vote of 77 to 44.
This bill affects many people. It offends some. It frees some. It makes people angry, happy, upset, overjoyed, confused. But, regardless of how people feel, it has been passed and it has been changed to...
"...ensure that its provisions are not applied in a discriminatory manner."
And that...
"...all people, regardless of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity will have the opportunity to marry if they so choose."
Interesting, huh?
My flatmate told me that the bill had been passed, and she was really stoked, but she did a bit of a back-track because she knows that I'm a christian.
What does that say about the way people see christians in regard to debates like this? In my own church, and even in my own bible study group, we do not all have the same opinion regarding this particular topic. And by the way, it's actually ok.
For me, the most important thing about this bill isn't the fact that "anyone can get married now", it is that the law cannot be used in a discriminatory manner. Shouldn't that statement be on all the laws?
The two greatest commandments are "love God and love others as yourself" (see Matthew 22:37-40). That does not apply to anyone else's choices but your own. God doesn't say "love me, and make sure others are doing what you think they should" or "love me, and make sure you judge everyone according to your opinions". No, these commandments are directly to you, and it's your choice to obey them or not. Your choice to love regardless of your judgement is the most crucial decision you could ever make.
Noone has the right to be discriminated because of the labels they have been given.
The only label I believe in is "loved".
P.S.
I personally haven't made up my mind what I believe is "right" or "wrong" when it comes to the topic of homosexuality. I know a few people who identify this way and I know that they didn't choose their sexuality. I certainly don't remember choosing to be heterosexual and yet that is how I identify myself when it comes to sexuality. There are certain verses in the bible, especially the new testament which seem to be pretty clear about homosexuality being a sin (i.e. wrong, or something that makes you turn away from God), but then again so do passages about women not being allowed to speak in church. I am not trying to put down the bible's credibility. I believe that the bible is the Word of God and it is the truth and all that. But I do also believe in understanding the context and history behind passages.
I'll get back to you one day if I figure it out. Maybe I should ask the big guy Himself eh?
Read the article about it...
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/politics/8560494/Marriage-equality-bill-passes
