I am weary of politics and all the baggage it carries. It seems like it's naturally or at least easily just a point of contention for all who are engaged in it. We all have our view of how justice should be carried out and realized in this world. And we hold to our views passionately. But I wonder if we too easily dismiss the problems and limitations inherent in all of this.
For us in Jesus, we have a message from God of the kingdom of God come in Jesus. It's a message which cuts against the grain of both left and right. It's a message which refuses alliance with any kingdom or government of this world. It's a call to repentance and faith and submission to the one King of kings and Lord of lords- Jesus.
In light of that, I can't get overly excited about any one candidate any year. To do that seems to be in danger of selling out to one worldly "kingdom" or another. It's fine to be registered in one party or another, or to serve politically in either, don't get me wrong. I just think we have to remember what it is and what it is not. It is what it is, with all its limitations. But it is not either the kingdom of God or allied to the kingdom of God come in Jesus. It is neither! Government or "the state" needs to be much more humble than that.
The message to such is, "Here is the revelation of God in Jesus. You will be judged by that!" Of course it's people in the process who are so judged, not the platform itself. Inherent in that is the hope that governments can be influenced to govern in ways that will promote shalom and God's good will on earth.
So we need to be interested in these things with a grain of salt, and more. It has its place, but let's be sure we've first given Jesus, and the kingdom of God he brings, its rightful place. And that by itself is an ongoing project. Of course from that we must do good in this world. How that plays out for each one of us will vary, even on whom we vote for, or whether we vote at all, as well as what we do. Here's one thing in Jesus, we're all called to do.
What would you add to this?
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7 comments:
they are about to go into the last curve of the race track.
there might be a bit of elbow poking going on in the turn.
then they will come out of the curve all red-faced, running..."out of steam" that is, and limping towards the finish line.
Nancy,
I imagine them steaming to the finish line. The fatigue will be on my end, or among people who are tired of these campaigns. If they could civily discuss issues, in a respectful tone. And not belittle each other, in the process. But of course, that wouldn't win votes!
it does remind me of a car sales commercial, a three ring circus, and the indy 500, all rolled into one.
Ted:
Yes, many, including myself, join you in your weariness. I just hope and pray that they next election cycle does not start as early as this one.
The chorus continues to grow! I too am weary of the talking heads telling me what the other talking heads think about what the pundits think about what the politicians meant when they said what they really didn't mean to say.
Allan,
I wholeheartedly agree. But the media and some people just eat it up, it seems!
I wish we had one month of good solid campaigning, as opposed to what's going on now. And with substance and dignity.
Bill,
I hear you. I do value a few, try to steer clear of those who seem to want to put people down, and still get tired even of the better.
I say, when will it end?! Not many, like Tim Russert, who seem to keep it fresh and interesting, I'm afraid. George Stephanopolous is not bad, either.
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