This is in response to two letters that have been printed in The State News last week: “Christ deserves day off like MLK” (SN 1/22) and “Christ’s beliefs not felt by all” (SN 1/23). The first letter, by Eric Bjornstad, argued that our university should recognize Jesus Christ as a public servant in a way similar to the events that took place on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
As a Christian, I would not be opposed to such a day and would certainly be an active participant during it. However, I do not think there is a need for our university to grant us a day off in remembrance.
I feel very fortunate to live in a country where we can actively worship and speak about Jesus Christ. Today there are still places throughout the world where many Christians are persecuted and even enslaved because of their beliefs.
Bjornstad wrote that “I, along with many others, will not be participating in MLK Day events until Good Friday or any other designated day remains class-free to honor the original civil rights leader, Jesus Christ.” I personally believe this is a very backward idea. Martin Luther King Jr. exemplified Christ’s love by preaching unity and equality for our nation. In honoring him, I can also honor the teachings of Christ that fueled King’s actions. Refusing to participate in any MLK Day events does not spread Christ’s love, but instead stigmatizes Christians and Christianity.
It was probably this stigma that inspired Brian Selewski to write his letter. I must say I disagree with his letter entirely. I do not disagree because I believe all people on this campus should be forced to celebrate the life of Jesus Christ, but because the denial of Christ existing is entirely false. Christ did live on this earth. One could argue against the resurrection, or that he was the son of God, but I would disagree. In fact, there are even atheist scholars who admit Christ’s resurrection cannot be proven false.
The truth is that Christ did live, and for those who would disagree I suggest you carefully search the truth. We may not have a day off at this university to provide information, but fortunately there are local churches, books such as the two excellent texts by Lee Strobel, “Case For Christ” and the more recent “Case For Faith,” and also campus ministries.
I believe in searching you will find the answer, because Christ himself said in Matthew 7:7-8, “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.”
Jason Sroufe
social relations junior
