In the United States and maybe in a few other countries, October 11 is celebrated as National Coming Out Day. I have always loved this idea of having a special day to celebrate who we are as sexual beings -- lesbian, gay, straight, bisexual, transgender, queer, etc. I happen to believe that "coming out" is a lifelong process. I have also heard some very good sermons and speeches at rallies about the significance of Coming-Out!
For an example or two, Jesus told Lazarus to "Come Out" from the tomb where he had been buried. We could say that Jesus, himself, came out on more than one occasion. He came (up) out of the water after his Baptism; He came out as a Miracle-Worker, when he changed the water into wine at the Wedding Feast in Canna; He came out as a Healer, the first time He healed a person; and of course, He came out of the tomb on that First Easter Sunday morning.
Coming Out is the process of revealing something about oneself to another or to the world. Revealing our sexual orientation is only one part of who we are. There are some times and places when/where we need to come-out as a believer/Christian? Christ-Follower. Sometimes, we may need to come out as a person who believes in and values our cultural heritage. Some of us might need to come out as an artist, as a writer, as a singer or other kind of musician. At such a time, we would be revealing our talents or gifts or abilities. All these things are an important part of who we are. Since we are ever evolving and changing, we may need to keep coming out in various ways throughout our lifetime. This is my Coming Out Prayer:
Most Holy and Gifted Creator,
I thank you for making me in your own image and likeness. Truly, I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Help me to properly and joyfully reveal and reflect the beauty and majesty with which you have endowed me, I rejoice in every facet of my being, and I desire to use all that I am and all that I have in loving service to you and your creation. Bless me now, my Divine Redeemer, that I may be a blessing right where I am today.
In all your Holy Names, I pray. Amen
