As the Occupy Wall Street movement continues its efforts, a growing number of faith-based leaders have raised their voices with what they believe is the “right” position on the issue. Some decry and lament the movement as anti-Christian socialist propaganda; others claim Occupy Wall Street is the answer to “What Would Jesus Do?” But the curious question in my mind is what would Jesus occupy?

A look at his life reveals not a single sit in. His quiet revolution included teaching, food, and healing. Much of his time was spent with a small group of friends. In a book whose manuscript I first wrote three years ago, I found a few words that reflect my general attitude to today’s protests:

Jesus was once asked what the greatest commandment was. His answer was short and sweet. Instead of a list of legalistic statutes no human could ever accomplish, He answered—love God, love people.

Loving God and loving people is my calling as a Christian. And yours (if you are one). So quit blogging about my friendship with Satan and gossiping about the six hundred and sixty six ways I have abandoned the faith by reading about Zen Buddhism so I can share my faith with one of the world’s gazillion Buddhists.

I don’t like finger painting during worship services, candles that smell girly, Jesus bobble-head dolls, or Bibleman action figures. And yet I don’t start protests over them either.

My only protest sign is this: Love Jesus More.

 

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DILLON BURROUGHS is an author, activist, and co-founder of Activist Faith. Dillon served in Haiti following the epic 2010 earthquake and has investigated modern slavery in the US and internationally. His books include Undefending ChristianityNot in My Town (with Charles J. Powell), and Thirst No More (October). Discover more at ActivistFaith.org.

 

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