I wrote this letter and it was published in the Chelmsford Independent on September 7, 2006.

There's a story many Christians know about a man who was forced to deny his love three times. As a candidate for State Senator, Sandi Martinez wants to make this the law for some couples. Though homosexuality is not a crime, she supports a constitutional amendment which will prohibit gay couples from declaring lifelong commitments. Surely anyone who’s been married or in love can see that forcing any adult to deny their love for another adult is not only cruel, it’s immoral.

 

But Martinez not only opposes gay marriage, she’s on record as being against civil unions, sharing healthcare benefits and hospital visitation rights. This is harshly punishing to gay couples. What punishment will she suggest for same sex couples who’ve already married?

 

It was shameful when our government enshrined racial discrimination in marriage, work, and schools. Do we want to make a narrow and contemporary interpretation of sin into the law of the land? Will Martinez next want to use government to punish other old testament sins, like “giveth his neighbor drink?” (Habakkuk 2:15)

 

Though it’s her right, I think it’s embarrassing to see Martinez campaign in Chelmsford with this agenda, and we should expect better from our would-be leaders.