First – I do not think of them as an opponent. Refer back to my sermon on the many paths we as all Christians take – being cooperative and helping each other…
Second – we have all agreed to the foundational principles of Christ, following slightly different practices; agreeing that we all have our own way of doing things.
Third – in spite of our differences, those who follow Christ’s teachings will strive to uplift each other, bear each other’s burdens, and not debate any differences. Most who know me know – I’m a huge advocate of all Christian faith’s uniting to one purpose, while traveling our different paths.
The question about the little “Mormon” hymn “Love At Home”… it isn’t really a Mormon hymn at all. Written by John Hugh Mcnaughton in Caledonia New York, 1860, also known as the “Civil War Poet” – he authored only one other hymn, but focused more on his poetry.
This song loved by so many, was adopted into the Mormon hymnal – while also used by many other faiths as well.
If you look at the many hymnals from all denominations of faiths, you’ll find more than two-thirds within each of the contents are universally shared by most Christian religions.
Just because most Christian faiths share many of the same principles, practices, geographical region, or even music: doesn’t mean we are the same religion, we are very different – it simply means we just get along as Christ intended.
This week I’ll be available for Sabbath Communion on our late schedule, and Most of Saturday evening for our preparations.
Reverend Jack
