Thanks to Rich Buhler

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to chat for nearly an hour with Rich Buhler on his “Talk from the Heart” radio program in Southern California.

Rich has a long history in both media and ministry, and he is often regarded as the “father of modern Christian talk radio.”

Because of that label -- “Christian” -- I felt a bit of trepidation when I was invited to be a guest on his program. After all, in my experience, it has been people who call themselves “Christian” who have been the most inclined to kick me. And I’ve been called “anti-Christian” plenty often enough.

So… sad as it may seem, I tend to reflexively cringe a bit when I hear that word. It’s as though I’m waiting for the punch.

But my cringe reflex was all wrong with Rich. He obviously has a deep well of understanding about sexual abuse and how it affects its victims. There were no easy platitudes and no sermons on forgiveness.

Rich also understands how the typical and very hurtful pattern of response is one of institutional self-protection.

I was clearly preaching to the choir with Rich, but I was so grateful for the opportunity to visit with him on-air and to reach out to his listeners.

Rich used the power of his voice and his media presence to broaden people's awareness of clergy sex abuse and to reach out with a heart of compassion for abuse survivors. For that, I say a profound “thank-you.”

On a personal level, it was also encouraging for me to talk with someone who is a person of faith -- and especially a person of faith in the public arena -- and yet clearly someone who "gets it." For that too, I say “thank-you” to Rich Buhler.

If even half of Southern Baptist leaders had even half of Rich Buhler’s level of understanding and care, then Baptistland would be a very different place.

I’ll pray for that day.