Former Missouri Senator John C. Danforth wrote an editorial column in today’s New York Times (requires registration) in which he laments the far-right’s takeover of Christianity. He’s right on target, IMO with this statement:

But for us, the only absolute standard of behavior is the commandment to love our neighbors as ourselves. Repeatedly in the Gospels, we find that the Love Commandment takes precedence when it conflicts with laws. We struggle to follow that commandment as we face the realities of everyday living, and we do not agree that our responsibility to live as Christians can be codified by legislators.

It’s sad (and frustrating) to me that to “be a Christian” has come to mean living by a strict set of moral rules and regulations rather than living by Christ’s example. This perspective on Christianity is what kept me away from church for years — it just didn’t make sense to me, and since I thought that legalism was my only option, I simply opted out.

I love where I am now. I’m not perfect. The beautiful thing is, I recognize that I never will be — which means that the stress and fear that comes with attempting perfection are alleviated. All I can be is good enough. All I can do is look at my life, my choices, my actions…and ask that cliche’ question, “What would Jesus do?” Many of the folks who brandish WWJD fish on their cars (or bracelets on their wrists, or whatever) seem to be under the impression that WWJD means “Don’t drink. Don’t smoke. Don’t have sex. Don’t…the list goes on and on.” They’re missing the boat. It’s not WWJ(not)D, it’s what would Jesus DO…action, people! The answer is, LOVE.