A Meek Resistance

Senator Sanders, at a recent confirmation hearing for Russell Vought, who had been appointed to a position in the Office of Budget and Management, you brought a lot of critical scrutiny to Mr. Vought's personal beliefs about Jesus.
We appreciate and share your stated concern for the health of our pluralistic society. But we are concerned that your policing of theological positions poses more of a threat to that pluralism than do the followers of Jesus Christ. As Christian believers, we are convinced that Jesus would have us show courtesy and love to all our neighbors. But we are also convinced that salvation is needed and that Jesus is needed for salvation. This conviction is based on the testimony of Jesus himself, as recorded in the Bible, which is why no one can judge us for this belief without rendering the same judgment on Jesus.
It makes us sad to think that you believe our convictions might disqualify us from participation in the public square. But if forced to choose between your approval and our Savior, with all of his difficult demands and indescribable benefits, we will always choose Jesus. 
At the same time, we are patriotic citizens and proud Vermonters who are grateful to you for representing our state in the Senate. It's our privilege to pray for you and to see you blessed, regardless of how you feel about us. 
Please reconsider your approach to people of strong faith and good will. 
In the meantime we will resist your efforts to proscribe Christian belief, and we will resist with all the stubbornness of a Yankee, and all the meekness of Jesus.

Your friends at Furnace Brook Wesleyan Church,
Pittsford and Brandon, Vermont. 

---