The question I get asked most is, “Is God mad at me, because I’m a pedophile.” My answer is always no, no, NO! Being attracted to minors is a physiological condition, just like any other. It’s a life-challenge that a few people face, but everyone faces challenges in life. God isn’t mad at anyone because they struggle. Instead, he says, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” (Isaiah 43:2)
The second question I hear most often is, “Why did God make me this way? It isn’t fair at all!” For my part, I wish I wasn’t attracted to boys; I sure didn’t ask for it. But, God didn’t make us this way. The world if very broken and we humans suffer in many ways, and pedophilia is just one of them. But, God promises to be with us in the middle of the brokenness, and make our lives a story of redemption. He can heal us inside-out, and help us find love in life. How that happens will be different for each person. It might mean finding an adult who becomes a soulmate and spouse, being an awesome grandparent, or a best friend. We can make it through life without hurting kids, and still have love and intimacy – God can help us find a way.
I like what Gandalf tells Frodo:
“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo.
“So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”
― J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring
We do not have to be victims of pedophilia. Let’s define who we are by the choices we make.
Still, we have all done evil – if not in action, than in heart and mind. It’s true what the Bible says: “All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God’s paths to follow our own…” But, there is forgiveness, because “the LORD laid on [Jesus] the sins of us all.” (Isaiah 53:6). You do not have to wake up with guilt each morning. There’s forgiveness with Jesus, and a brand new day.
We have good reason to be hopeful! The more difficult challenge we face, the more wonderfully God will help us. Sometimes, I’m glad to be a pedophile, because it’s such a special opportunity for God to do something amazing in my life. I know what Paul means when he says he’d rather boast in his weaknesses, “so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” (2 Cor 12:9)
Does God love pedophiles? Yes, he loves you and me, as he loves all his kids.