While the people of Vicco, KY can be commended for protecting the rights of all citizens and taking care of their own people, we would be remiss to allow an emotion-packed letter or anything else to determine what is the standard for right and wrong. In fact, neither Chicago, New York City, or Washington can do that. No congressional law, Supreme Court ruling or even the President has that right. They can give their opinions like the writer of this article but that does not determine what is true nor what is right.
As a nation, we have the constitution and the Bill of Rights as a standard (at least until this present administration!). All of our federal laws, up till now, have been based on these documents crafted by much wiser people than we will every be again.
In a similar but much more powerful way, God through his word, the Bible, has given us standards by which to live. This standard has been written, ultimately, for the good of all people. Although many today would deny it, the Bible became the basis for much of our legal system.
For example, adultery (having sex with another's spouse) and fornication (having sex outside of marriage) are condemned throughout the Bible. Slowly, but surely, we have disregarded this standard to the detriment of all of society - 50%+ divorce rate, high teen pregnancy rates, etc. Likewise, God in the Bible condemns incest, homosexuality, and yes, even cross-dressing. It is, of course, very important to state that while God condemns these actions or "lifestyles" as we call them today, he still very much loves the people. However, just because he loves them does not mean that he accepts what they do. Instead, he insists that everyone follow his ways and not visa versa. Whether we or the people of Vicco, KY decide to follow the truths that God has given us or not will never change those standards. Should we protect peoples' rights to live and work? Yes. Should we take care of people in need? Yes. Should we let any opinion change what God has said is right or wrong? Never!
All of us will be long gone while the Bible will remain as God's word to mankind. I would encourage everyone to consider God's opinion over that of any person, town, city, nation, court, or president.
Barry T. White
Waynesburg
