Yesterday, one of my friends asked me what I thought regarding the recent discounts IKEA was offering to their members for the magic show by Pastor Lawrence Khong. I told her honestly, I think some people may be overreacting a little — on both sides of the fence. To be fair, the content of the magic show itself does not carry any anti-lgbt rhetoric although Pastor Lawrence Khong does front the show. So while I understand why some people are disappointed and upset that IKEA is partnering in some way to promote the show, I personally don’t agree with the calls to boycott IKEA. I believe there are far better ways to engage the management of IKEA in dialogue regarding this issue. Our common goal should be to deepen awareness and understanding on both sides. That is why it is very important that individuals and LGBT groups speak up to voice our disappointment to IKEA and to raise questions regarding IKEA’s stated commitment towards diversity.
Speaking up is good and helpful. Unleashing hateful rhetoric is not. Neither is pressuring others to boycott. Every consumer has the right to do what we deem fit, according to one’s personal convictions and conscience. As consumers, we speak with our wallets and we should.
As people who are loved by Jesus, I wonder how God is leading you to respond in this situation? Personally, I am disappointed with IKEA but I’m not angry. I think empathy, truth, dialogue and compassion is the way forward…always. Oh, that and prayer.
So would you join me in prayer?
“God who knows all hearts, be with the people at IKEA. Be with their employees who are lgbt and caught in this crossfire. Be with each one of us as we ponder our response. May your will be done in and through us. Amen.”
PAULINE