Attend same sex wedding ceremony?
Our niece is getting married in a gay marriage ceremony very soon. Should we attend the ceremony and reception but continue to let her know that we and the Bible do not agree with her lifestyle? We are torn about attending because we continue to witness and let her know that these are sinful acts that are not being repented, however, we want to continue to show our love for her and continue to witness to her without her shutting us out of her life and not allowing us to witness to her.
Romans 14:14, 23 teaches us not to act contrary to our conscience. If you are convinced that it would be wrong for you even to attend the ceremony, then it would be wrong for you. On the other hand, you might be convinced that you can, in good conscience, attend the ceremony.
Your attendance or absence from the ceremony is not the most important matter here. More important is what you communicate to your niece about your presence or absence. If you choose to attend, you can explain that you came because you love her, not because you agree with the actions she has taken. If you choose not to attend, you can explain that you wrestled with how to show love to her and also how to stand up for the truths of Scripture, and you settled on not attending.
I agree with you that your niece needs your Christian witness in her life. She needs loving Christians pointing her to God’s law and gospel. She needs the truths of God’s word in her life, so that the Holy Spirit can bring about godly attitudes and actions.
As you can see from this response, the decision to accept or decline the invitation to attend the ceremony is entirely yours. Most important is what you communicate to your niece regarding your decision. Speak the truth in love to her (Ephesians 4:15), and remind her that she will continue to be in your prayers. God bless you.