It is difficult to have a discussion with someone who, by simply disagreeing with them, feels that you are attacking the very core of who they are. And while I’m certain many homosexuals do feel like their “gayness” is what makes them them, it’s not true. They are not merely sex beings. They may live for that, but that is only because they have yet to fully understand and appreciate how God sees them. Indeed, many Christians I’ve met still struggle with shame and guilt and the general falsehood that they in some way aren’t up to snuff when it comes to how God sees them. The church is rife with an identity crisis of its own, so this is not a unique problem to the homosexual community.
Ultimately we are all fallen short of the glory of God. Caitlyn Jenner feels that by becoming a woman he will finally feel the peace he’s always lacked. And while it may lessen the pain a bit, it won’t ever fully fill that emptiness inside of him. The national debate caused by this event has focused on whether or not this is right or wrong, beautiful or gross, life-giving or sinful. But the truth is that all of us sin, all of us are broken, all of us are orphans in search of our true Father. We in turn do whatever it takes in our own lives to drown that emptiness out—whether it’s through alcohol, pornography, overeating, overworking, or even sex changes. But the emptiness can only be filled by one thing, by one Spirit. We were made for Him, and until we finally admit it and submit to Him, we will never be truly happy.
But of course if that were all there was to it then the onus would be entirely on us. But the wonderful truth is that our Father is relentlessly pursuing us, even as we make decisions that are not His best for us, and He won’t ever give up on us, no matter what choices we make or how we view ourselves. Because a loving Father never gives up on His kids, and He thankfully won’t give up on any of us—gay or straight.
Darren Wilson is the founder of Wanderlust Productions and the creator of various films, including Finger of God, Furious Love, and Father of Lights. Darren’s new book, Finding God in the Bible, is available in stores everywhere. Visit his website at wpfilm.com.
