“Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground.”

John 8:6b

I love this story of Jesus and the Woman caught in adultery. The Pharisees believe they have Jesus trapped along with this unnamed woman. But Jesus never answers their accusations directly. He listens to the charges against the woman, and then bends down and writes on the ground. This is a story of grace and mercy, yes, but it also feels like one of support and allyship.

Merriam Webster defines allyship as: association with the members of a marginalized or mistreated group to which one does not belong. I’ve learned that true allyship cannot be claimed; it is only recognized or acknowledged by the group that you seek to walk with.

Over the years I have also learned that my support of my LGBTQIA+ siblings requires more than just showing up for the Pride Parade in rainbow colors.

Our queer, gay, trans, and non-binary siblings need our vocal support. They need us to stand in the gap for them, not because they cannot advocate for themselves, but because we are all accomplices in the work for equality.

One of my Facebook friends posted this saying last week: “An ally offers support, an accomplice offers activism. Please hold me accountable to being an accomplice. This month and every month.”

My faith demands nothing less. My LGBTQIA+ friends and family deserve that and much more.

I plan to be an accomplice. An agitator. Join me.

Peace,
Pastor Bridget