WWJD?

Several years ago, the acronym "WWJD" was seen and heard everywhere within the conservative Christian communities. The premise was simple. Following the outline of the 19th century novel, In His Steps, written by the Kansas Congregationalist minister, Charles Sheldon, contemporary Christians were enjoined to base their actions on what Jesus would do. Books were written using the concept as the guiding principle; sermons were preached on it; classes were taught on it.

Now, though, it seems that many conservative Christians believe that what following Jesus means is to be abusive toward others who do not believe as you do. Devotees of talk radio and attenders of political meetings seem more adept at hate filled speech than 'divine-love-filled' speech. Of course, you may think that this type of discourse is what pleases God. And, you may believe that Jesus would join in and be better at it than you.

Interestingly, during his prayer at President Obama's inauguration, Reverend Rick Warren addressed God with this request: "As we face these difficult days ahead, may we have a new birth of clarity in our aims, responsibility in our actions, humility in our approaches, and civility in our attitudes, even when we differ."

You have to wonder if current actions and comments by those who say they are Christians, and who often portray themselves as the only true Bible-believing, God-fearing Christians around, should be seen as fulfilling the intent of this prayer.