I read about 47 of the responses to this hot-issue decision of Thrivent before my morning shower. During my long shower I wondered what the response would be of my Thrivent-Rep son. I also wondered how the Lord felt as He heard the often-angry condemnations of my sisters, brothers, and pastors of the LCMS. I also thought of the Pharisee-types who brought the woman guilty of adultery to be stoned.....and the non-condemning words of Jesus. I am very strongly opposed to abortion. I have "non-Waco" sisters and brothers in the Lord who happen to worship Him in LCA churches who serve our Lord Jesus in wonderful ways. My conclusion at the end of my long shower? Two-fold; -maybe Thrivent is being WISE by not taking a stand on abortion, either pro or con....recognizing their purpose to be providing quality products for Christian families -maybe WE, who feel so strongly about our "pro-life agencies" should increase OUR gifts to them and not count on agencies/businesses to be the source of their support -finally, I thought of words of the Lord urging us to speak the truth in LOVE.....and to show patience, etc. towards those who think and act and speak in ways different from us. That old song, "They'll know we are Christians by our LOVE......" comes to mind, too. God bless us all and use us to be His blessing to many, including those who think and act different from us, even those in apparent opposition to His clear Word. -bd