As Americans, we should understand that Freedom of Speech is a unique Freedom. Just look around at many countries in the world where citizens are jailed for speaking out against the government in power. Or, speaking openly about one’s Religious beliefs. For now, we in America can peaceably assemble and exercise free speech without fear of being arrested. This is a result of the First Amendment.
What does the 1st Amendment say anyway?
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
There is a difference in the right to free speech versus whether and how we choose to exercise that speech. We have a near absolute right to free speech but I urge my fellow believers -to “let your conversation be always full of grace..” (Col.4:6). Put plainly, being rude, arrogant, mean-spirited and insulting as we oppose issues that we feel go against our Christian faith is not the best way to utilize our freedom of speech. Gal. 5:22 list the fruits of the spirit – and rude, crass and mean-spiritedness is not listed. Now, this does not mean that we agree with the world’s values, but does suggest a correct way to express if we deem our Christian witness important.
As an example; one of our employees here at the firm traveled 28 hours by bus to Washington DC. The event was the 46th Annual National March for Life and Rally. An estimated 800,000 people were in attendance. This was a peaceable march and rally for the unborn’s “Right to Life”. It was a peaceable demonstration and was protected under the First Amendment. One of the keynote Speakers was Louisiana State Representative Katrina Jackson, Democrat from Monroe who is a very vocal Pro-Life politician. I listened to her speech and it was informative, passionate, and peaceful. I am honored that one of the keynote speakers was from Louisiana (my home state). I am also honored that one of our employees (Dana Thibodeaux and her daughter) exercised their First Amendment right to
participate in this event in an honorable fashion.
