Today I’m rambling to connect the Church and the Deshaun Watson signing:
- The Browns repulsed many fans by Watson’s signing.
- Many victims re-lived their trauma, wondering how so little accountability could exist for a man accused of so much.
- No talking to his potential victims, no heartfelt acknowledgement. Instead, the Browns released statements reeking of lawyer talk.
- I don’t wish to summarize all the different reactions. Many things about this signing ring true simultaneously.
- Business, football, wins, risk, unavailability of quality quarterbacks, the Browns “homework” on this decision, desperation – you name it, someone has commented.
- Today I want to encourage you to consider a connection between the Browns approach and many churches’ approach.
- See, sexual scandal doesn’t just involve quarterbacks, athletes, media personalities, etc. They involve churches and pastors as well.
- And, in the church, the approach to such incidents speaks to values.
- Let me say this: the Browns don’t care very much about victims’ or fans’ feelings. They really don’t. They honestly believe that if they win football games, everyone will cheer this team and this signing. New fans will eventually replace those with strong feelings or those leaving the fan-base.
- Sadly, often the approach in the church mirrors this attitude. Whether stated or not, actions imply that the hurt, the marginalized, etc. can feel however they want or even leave…and the church will go on. Others will replace them. The “brand” will stay in tact.
- This is far from the heart of Jesus. Truth, compassion, and love should dominate our responses. Often they don’t.
- I only ramble today to challenge you to let this truth sink in to your heart.
- I don’t write today of an isolated or specific incident. Instead, it seems a literal playbook exists for how to protect the image of the church. This playbook never treats victims as well as they deserve.
- Today, ask yourself: why is the Church often like the business of the Cleveland Browns?