Political Faith
Remember in 2008 when I asked Christians why they were voting for Obama? Got a lot of spirited answers on that one didn’t we?
I’m not sure what the deal is but all of the sudden today I’ve found myself fascinated with politics. Maybe it’s because the World Series ended. There’s no other “championship” thing going on right now, and that’s when I kinda get into things. Superbowl, World Series, NBA Championships. Wow. That sounded less “un-American” in my head.
Anyway here’s the deal. I didn’t vote last time and I’m not entirely sure I’m going to vote this time. Now, you can call me an idiot, un-American, irresponsible or whatever else you want to call me but let me start this conversation by asking this.
What happens when faith goes out the window because someone aligns with us politically?
“Uh oh. He’s a mormon. It’s okay though, at least it’s better than a democrat.”
“Well I’d rather have someone in there with at least some kind of faith instead of that Muslim fella.”
Yikes.
We live right smack in the first or second hole of the Bible belt and I can’t begin to tell you how many Romney signs are up and down our streets. Now, I’m not saying he’s not the right choice. I’m not saying Obama isn’t the right choice. I’m simply asking what happens when our faith takes a back seat because the guy on T.V. is saying the right things politically?
What’s wrong with voting for the lesser of two evils? Come on, you’ve all said it. See that’s where I find the conflict. I don’t know that I need to choose a lesser of two evils. I don’t know that I need to throw all my chips into a guy that, in a different circumstance would have Christians freaking out because he’s part of a cult.
So here we are again. The chance to exercise my American freedom to not vote, or join the crowd of Christians settling for the guy saying just enough of the right things.
Thoughts?
Brody: Good article and I do understand your dilemma, lot’s of people of faith do. I would encourage you to look at it with a little different perspective. First, there will never be the perfect candidate for any of us. However to be able to vote is a privilege many in the world will never experience. Second, the scripture is fairly clear that government is ordained by God, (not individuals who serve in office but the system itself, Rom 13:1-7). Read the platforms and make a decision about who you believe will better serve the common good of the nation. I am not really excited about our choices but I believe I need to participate in the process. Beyond that hold fast that we have dual citizenship, our ultimate allegiance is to the Kingdom of God.
Thanks Rick. Good words.
We’ve been “friends” long enough that this is our 2nd Presidential election together! How exciting is that trivial statistic??!!
I like what Rick had to say. The church I’ve been attending since we moved quoted the same scripture (amongst others) Sunday. I don’t like picking the lesser of 2 evils. That makes it sound like I am letting God down. I need to follow what my heart (and the Holy Spirit) are leading me to do. My husband is not voting for the 1st time in his voting life (plus he still hasn’t gotten a CA license yet-15 months!!).
Prayer and listening, Brody. Prayer & listening (and I don’t mean the crap on TV). I have to keep moving forward and having faith that God is the one ultimately in charge!