Proverbs 21:27 - - April 22, 2019 - - Newly Minted Outrage

The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination;

how much more when he brings it with evil intent.

Proverbs 21:27 ESV

Perhaps you have already heard all the hype of the new loonie—celebrating 50 years of gay rights. Our Prime Minister is sacrificing political capital in order to celebrate his father and to score political points with the LGBT+ community. While this truly is wicked, it is no more wicked than other coins that the Canadian Mint has struck. Consider the $5.00 silver zodiac coins being minted each month of this year. Astrology is an abomination—Christians know that the stars do not control us, determine anything about our lives. The heavens were made by God. The stars and the cosmos declare His glory. It is a perverse and God-defying world-view that celebrates astrology.

Let me be clear: I think all such coins are wrong. The new loonie is a new low in political pandering and evil intent. Since this particular coin is intended for public circulation it is a sign of just how corrupt our government can be as it celebrates and promotes rebellion against God. What a sad day for Canadians.

As Christians, we are not surprised. We live in a a society that has long ago shed its Christian heritage and values. Therefore we do not not expect non-Christians to act like Christians. However, Christians ought to act in a way that accords with our Christian faith. Jesus our King has died for sinners of all types and stripes. The sins of the LGBT+ community are not worse than other sins that our society celebrates.

How should we, as Christians respond?

Pray for our government leaders. Pray for those who promote a wicked agenda that they may have a change of heart and know Jesus as Lord and King. Pray with thanks for all those who are Christians and striving to honour God in their political service.

Pray for those who are caught up in the LGBT+ life-style and are trapped by their sins. May God, Who can redeem us from all our sins, bring such transformation that many who hate their own sins may be set free in Jesus to bring glory to God.

Pray that when you receive such a coin you can use it as an opportunity to witness to the glory of God. Remember how Jesus held up a coin on which was written the blasphemous statement, ‘Caesar is Lord’?! He used it as an opportunity to witness (Matthew 22:15-22).

If your conscience requires you to refuse such coins, you can ask for four quarters instead, or ask for a different loonie. Do so with kindness, not hatefully. As you are asking for the coin to be exchanged for other coins, do so allowing the love of Christ to shine from your heart and face. You do not want to bring dishonour to Jesus our King by acting in a way that is wicked and an abomination to the banker, vendor, or one giving you change. They have no idea of the thoughts of your heart and the reasons for your objections. With firm gentleness and respect, inform the person why you have objections.

Father in heaven, thank You that all men and women are created in Your image. Thank You that You have struck in us something that is drawn to You and longs for You. Jesus, blessed be Your Name for the glorious work of redemption which we celebrate every Easter and every Sunday through-out the year. Spirit of the Living God guide us as we navigate the treacherous shoals of life living as we do in a culture that hates God and is openly rebellious against Him. Triune God, help us to be powerful in our witness to the people around us and steadfast in our faithfulness to You. Amen.