God Doesn't Hate Figs, Either!

Let me start by going on record: I don't believe that God hates homosexuals. I also don't believe that God hates Chick-Fil-A owners, Democrats or Republicans, Jews or Muslims... The God who hung on the cross and cried out to heaven, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do”, does not hate PEOPLE. God detests some behaviors-- sins—and I might add that no one particular group of humans seems to have a monopoly on either Christ's condemnation or grace. And God certainly does not hate figs, despite what a cartoon making its way around Internet Social sites seems to indicate.

I feel compelled to say something about this cartoon, for it generates in me feelings that are almost as strong as the disgust I feel every time I hear that members of the Westboro “Baptist” group (I refuse to use the words “Christian” or “Church” in relationship to this hate group.) have spewed their “God hates fags” mentality again. The cartoon I am speaking of show a drawing of Jesus with a headline that reads: “OMFG, guys. I said I hated FIGS.”

Some of my dearest friends have re-posted the cartoon saying words of affirmation such as “I love it!”. With sincere care and love for these friends, I have to respond: “I am appalled.” This cartoon comes precariously close to being blasphemous.

First, I know what OMFG stands for. “Thou shalt not take the Lord's name in vain.” One of the “Big 10” commandments is pretty definite. Taking the Lord's name in vain can take on many forms. Cursing, while using the word “god”, is certainly one example. To use the word frivolously, such as by saying, “Oh my God!” (OMG) is an example of using the name in vain. Adding the “F” word into thet equation simply makes the statement doubly offensive, at least to me. Perhaps even triply offensive.

I've never been comfortable with billboards, T-shirts, buttons or pencils that put words in God's mouth. However, if this cartoon had simply said, “Guys! I said I hated FIGS”, I might have simply giggled and even appreciated the point. But that isn't the case.  By using God's name in vain, by mis-using Christ's name (even to combat other mis-use of Christ's words), this cartoon has been made into something that isn't funny at all, and the "point", for me, is lost.

The truth is, God—Jesus-- actually liked figs, according to the Bible. When he cursed the fig tree, it was because he wanted figs, and the tree in question was not bearing any fruit. It seems to me that God hates behaviors... Jesus spoke out against, even showed anger, when people cheated others. He did not like sanctimonious or judgmental behaviors (such as exhibited by Sadduccees or Pharisees). He cursed the tree that bore no fruit.  

And yet, this is also the One who hung on the cross and asked for forgiveness for the very people who persecuted and killed him. I can only imagine that he begs for forgiveness for people today who, in the name of God, make terrible gestures of faith. He may not like the behaviors. He may not like MY behaviors. But I cling to the hope that in spite of it all, I am loved.  I pray that my life bears fruit, and that my actions find acceptance in His eyes.