Ruffling Other People's Feathers

(This message was originally published on August 1, 2012) An article in today's LA Times states, "Just two weeks ago, Chick-fil-A was a fast-food restaurant best known for chicken sandwiches and cross-cut fries. Now the chain is known for much more; chiefly its opposition to gay marriage. Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee has declared Aug. 1--today--Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day, encouraging residents nationwide who support traditional values to plunk down some money and let the Christian-run company know it's not alone."

I have a couple of friends who are owner-operators of a Chick-fil-A. From a customer service and quality aspect, I have been impressed for years.

In fact, I can remember eating when I was a kid at a Chick-fil-A that was in the mall in Newport News. Now my children enjoy the food.

But as the LA Times article highlights, my attention has been drawn to Chick-fil-A and the Cathy family (which owns and oversees the operation) for a reason other than good food and quality service.

The Bible teaches that marriage is between a man and a woman. The Bible teaches us that homosexual behavior is a sin, and like all sin, it is to be repented of before Holy God. Also, as with all sin, the Lord Jesus offers forgiveness, freedom, and power over sin. But the point I want to make today is simply this: all of us have times when the kitchen gets hot and we have to decide if we are more concerned with honoring the Lord or with ruffling other people's feathers.

The Apostle Paul stated his allegiance clearly, "For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ." (Galatians 1:10 ESV)

In closing, I thought you might find the following interesting. In a recent online posting (www.cathyfamily.com), some of the Cathy family members shared their life verses:

Dan Cathy chose, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:33 ESV)

Bubba Cathy chose, "You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." (Deuteronomy 6:5 ESV)

Trudy Cathy chose, "For nothing will be impossible with God." (Luke 1:37 ESV)

May we stand strong in the Lord!