Following a heated discussion of the Girls Scouts’ latest bed-fellows, the Boy Scouts briefly became the focus of conversation at book club tonight.
I’m going to say something that – I think – will be largely unpopular.
I totally agree with the change the Boy Scouts have made.
As the parent of a Boy Scout, I was encouraged to respond to the survey they issued in order to help them decide where to draw the line on the involvement of homosexuals in scouting. As I read and prayerfully answered those questions, I realized what a difficult position the organization was in. And it comes down to this:
What would Jesus do?
Would Jesus put people in leadership who openly professed beliefs and lifestyles that were contrary to his teachings?
No. He clearly chose as his disciples men who would lead by example. Men who would thwart conventions of the day to follow the convictions of their God. Thus, I am very supportive of the Boy Scouts decision to continue to prevent openly gay adults from holding leadership roles.
Would Jesus tell a nine year old boy who openly professed homosexuality that he could not be a part of a group?
No. In fact, he would encourage that boy to surround himself with good, Godly people, who could support and strengthen him in leading a life of sacrifice – a life in which he will be forced to deny his fleshly desires in recognition of God’s will for his life.
As a friend once told me: “I think, if Jesus were walking the Earth today, you’d be more likely to find him in a gay bar than at a Bible study.” Jesus would go where he is most needed. The well do not need a physician, after all.
And thus, as unpopular as my opinion may be, I do believe that young, homosexual boys should not be turned away from the Boy Scouts. Or from youth group, or a group of friends at school, etc. That smacks of bullying to me. Quite frankly, it also smacks of cruelty, heartlessness, and any other number of not-so-nice things.
If you don’t like it, don’t put your son in Boy Scouts. There are other options out there – options which, quite frankly, I myself am going to explore simply because I feel that Boy Scouts is too light on the faith and character aspect.
But I don’t think that having a gay boy in your son’s pack is going to turn your son gay. It might raise some uncomfortable questions, but I think those questions will provide parents with valuable teaching moments.
And let’s face it. What are the chances, really, of a ten year old boy being openly gay and wanting to join Boy Scouts. Pretty slim, I think.
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