Tolerance is defined as putting up with something unpleasant and it has become the watchword for Santa Cruz. Sets a pretty low bar as far as I am concerned. Wouldn't make much of a wedding vow. "I promise to put up with you until death releases me."
Christians are accused of being intolerant. Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” John 14:6 Now that is pretty narrow. He also said in Matthew 7:13-14, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it.” This is a favorite among Christians, in putting themselves above most others, who are on their way "to destruction".
But what else does Jesus said and confirm in his actions: Love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. (Luke 6:35) In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16)
Wow, so he did not say to tolerate your enemies, but love them. Maybe this is the narrow way. He said you can know his followers by their love. The broad way is filled with religious and political haters, critical and judgmental. But few go this way, because few truly love. But whose fault is that?
Is Jesus inclusive? He said, “For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.” (Matthew 7:8).
No, I do not want to be tolerant, I strive to deeply care about all who come my way, no matter how different. That is the challenge I got from Rene at Twin Lakes Church this weekend, and I will never again be concerned about the apparent narrowness of my beliefs. Loving God and loving others is open to all, but not easy.
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