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SCHIAVO

Not a right-to-life issue

I am disappointed in my brothers and sisters in Christ. I believe that God, too, is disappointed and embarrassed. We, as Baptists here lately, seem to do what is necessary to get in the media. We tell government “to stay out” and then we beg them to come in. We are no different from the world—going back and forth for our own gain.

This is not a right to life battle. First, the right to life battle is for babies who have no say. Terri did have a say and her husband fought to do as she said.

I believe that God’s Word talks about life and how precious it is, but in Mark 10:6-9, Jesus tells that a man and woman are two become one, and to let no man put asunder. This is exactly what is happening. Terri’s family and the Christians are trying to pull apart an institution that God started in the Garden of Eden.

It is time we stop judging and start loving just as Jesus Christ did.

David J. Ellis
Lakeland

ELECTIONS

Christians should vote

I would like to take this opportunity to encourage the Christians who are registered voters in the great state of Florida. I want to encourage you and ask you to help hold our elected officials accountable. Our voices need to be heard in both Tallahassee and Washington.

We need to help both Democrat and Republican politicians understand the consequences of their actions or non-actions in the jobs that they do. They need to understand that they are to represent the desires of their constituents, not a personal agenda that furthers their own political ambitions.

As Christians, we need to send a message loud and clear to those who we place in office. Our officials need to gain a better understanding of what people in their districts and states want. If they fail to do this, our message should be clear that you will be replaced in the next election.

Politicians count on the failure of the church to be proactive in issues in the political arena. Lets send our elected officials a message that Florida Baptists are watching and will be vocal and active in the upcoming elections. Be Steadfast!

Jeff Stockdale
Starke/Keystone Heights