In a Commentary piece for MPR News, Adam J. Copeland does a fantastic job helping to demystify the notion that all Christians are voting for the Minnesota marriage amendment this fall. He shares 5 key points:

• There is no one Christian position
• We all support families
• Gay and lesbians are not “others” or “alien;” they are our neighbors, our family members, our coworkers and our friends
• The Biblical argument is hotly contested
• Traditional labels do not always apply and may not be helpful

Mr. Copeland concludes the article in a way that still gives me goosebumps. He shares that he indeed will be voting against the amendment, however, that’s not the point his readers should take away:

More broadly, I hope Minnesota conducts the looming debate in a way that might make us all proud, whether or not our position wins a majority vote.

Diversity of opinion is part of what makes our state great. We can show our Minnesota values by debating our differences with civility, humility, and kindness.

Kudos to you, Mr. Copeland. And thank you for sharing the story of the Pastor and his “vote no” yard sign.