Choice is a Christian imperative

The Rt. Rev. Diana Akiyama; Bishop of Oregon

Many years ago, I heard a reflection about wealth in which the speaker said, “For me wealth is all about choice – having the freedom to choose.” He was framing the notion of material wealth not by the size of a bank account but by the way in which one is able to enjoy options from which to choose.

Choices about how we want to live into our humanity, and how to be more fully alive are at the core of Jesus’ teachings. He invites, illustrates, beckons, and instructs us on what it means to choose to follow him. The power of one’s faith is in the power of choosing, for oneself, a relationship founded on God’s abundant grace and love.

Every human being deserves the abundance of choice over their lives, their relationships, their bodies. Restricting the ability to exercise choice over one’s own body is to deny them the fullness of living into their humanity. It is a form of impoverishment – reducing abundance for some over others.

It is deeply disturbing that women and our bodies continue to be the substance on which societal fears are worked out. The denial of a woman’s right to choose is the work of those who are blind to the diverse forms of poverty that plague women’s lives every day. I will be deeply grieved at any ruling from the Supreme Court that allows us to turn our backs on the right of a woman to live fully and freely into her call as God’s Beloved.

Please pray with me for our justices, our courts, and our elected leaders Follow us on social media