Disagree Graciously

By S. Bill Jimenez

SOMETIME in 1968 an article appeared in the Philippines Free Press entitled, “Should Priests Marry?”  The author wrote a scholarly rationale on the doctrine of celibacy.  I wrote a rejoinder, “Yes, Priests Should Marry,” citing some scriptures like Matthew 8:14; 1 Corinthians 7:9; and 1 Timothy 3:2-4.

One day in 1984 I attended a symposium at San Francisco State University where some Filipino leaders spoke against the dictatorship at that time.  One of the speakers was the writer I mentioned earlier and I had the privilege to meet him.  After congratulating him of his compelling message, I reminded him of his article and my rejoinder. “So you are that guy,” he said smiling.  We did not replay our respective arguments, instead we were gracious toward each other.

I’m reminded of what our professor in Political Science, at the University of Pangasinan, who used to tell us: “I disagree with what you say, but I will defend to death your right to say it.”  This was attributed to Voltaire, the French writer and philosopher.

But in the case of Galileo, when he rightly stated that the Earth revolves around the Sun, church leaders charged him of heresy, put on house arrest and forced to recant his correct scientific belief.  He was persecuted for being right!

Therefore, let us listen to the admonition of the apostle Paul: “Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.  Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other” (Galatians 5:25-26).

Let’s pray: Dear Lord and Father, please continue to teach us to be kind and loving to each other.  Please guide and teach us in our relationships and dealings with one another.

In Jesus’ name.  Amen.

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