Jeff Buchanan

Just when you think things couldn’t get more bizarre, they have. This past week a petition was launched calling for the marriage of two iconic characters from Sesame Street, Bert and Ernie. The petition asks that the marriage be executed in a “tasteful” way in order to “Let us teach tolerance of those that are different.”

The petition was filed on the activist site Change.org that has become the equivalent of a national blacklist registry of individuals and organizations who hold to a conservative view on marriage and sexuality. While the site has had some success in intimidating organizations such as Apple and most recently Starbucks to comply with their demands, Sesame Street held strong and stated that Bert and Ernie are best friends and as puppets, they do not have a sexual orientation.

Apple’s decision to pull Exodus International’s smartphone application this week has ignited a viral frenzy, created a media firestorm and has generated some challenging points to ponder. Last month, we launched our app, which provides mobile access to resources and information to those struggling with matters related to sexuality and faith. Apple originally approved and gave it 4+ rating, but pulled it when gay activist groups launched a petition to remove the app.

As you can well imagine, Exodus has received an outpouring of responses ranging from support to threats of bodily harm. Everyone from Star Trek’s George Takei to author Jodie Picoult is weighing in and unfortunately, many who vehemently oppose us have bought the activists’ faulty label calling it the “Gay Cure App.” Nothing could be further from the truth. For more than 35 years, Exodus International’s mission has been to help those struggling with unwanted same-sex attraction to live a life congruent with biblical teaching. A “cure” for any issue is not within our aim or our ability. We do, however, unapologetically believe that Jesus Christ changes hearts and lives and that the Bible offers life-giving truth about who we are and who we were created to be.

The verdict is in. The California Supreme Court has ruled and the voter’s voice on marriage has been preserved, at least, for the moment. I must confess, though, that while I’m relieved, I’m a bit fatigued. Watching Miss USA contender Carrie Prejean assaulted for stating her views on marriage has been brutal. Hearing actor Sean …

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