Jordan - Acts 21

I was a little disappointed when Paul "purified" himself after coming back from working with the Gentiles.  While I know that Paul had the best intentions and that there was some hope of being accepted back in Jerusalem I can't help but notice that there is still ongoing view of Gentiles be inferior.  On the other hand, one of the more effective ways of changing the opinions of people (i.e. the Jews) is to work from within and Paul and disciples likely know that the more accepted the are in the Jewish community, the more effective their ministry can be.  Its frustrating though to always be reminded that throughout the history of the church, there is the "in crowd" and those on the periphery.

Luke provides some imagery in this vain (perhaps not intentionally) in verses 27-30.  Paul is accused of bringing a Greek into the temple.  "The seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple, and immediately the doors were shut."  The church has shut its doors on many different people over time for all sorts of reasons and its during those times when our human imperfections are most glaring.  How does Faith keep its doors open?  How do we make sure that our "family" isn't seen as a closed circle but one that is loving and welcoming?  If someone were to ask, what is Faith's feeling on the ELCA's social statement on human sexuality?