Presidential Election

Should Christians get involved in politics?

There is a growing number of people in the USA; Christians included who have made it evident that they want nothing to do with politics. In fact, many of these people get so exercised about corruption in the political system that they have declined to vote.

But, despite the widespread corruption in our political system, everyone who is eligible, should at least exercise their right to vote. Taking a hands-off approach will not help to make the system better. We live in a democratic society. The people who run the show are not self-appointed. We the people elected them to represent us. Therefore, the onus is on us to choose the right people to run our affairs.

Of course, Christians should get involved in politics and even seek elected offices. But it must be for good reasons. Many Religious organisations flirt with politics; because they want their selfish agendas brought to the fore. For example, evangelicals are lining up behind a particular nominee for president who has made an extensive list of innuendos, toxic rhetoric and critical commentary against women and the most marginalised minorities. Still yet, these Christians are willing to sell their souls to the devil in exchange for this person, who might even be an atheist.

As much as I’m eager to support a reputable Christian for elected office, I would shudder if that person attempts to push a theocratic agenda. There has to be a distinct line between politics and your religion. Our country is too diverse to have politicians pushing hot button issues that do not serve the interest of the country at large.

Might does not always make right.

David with the Head of Goliath

David with the Head of Goliath (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The recently concluded Presidential election campaign reminds me of the story of the duel between David and Goliath. (Romney was Goliath and Obama was David). Goliath on one hand, was tall and brawny, one of the most feared in the mighty Philistine army. He had a reputation of tearing his victims apart. (Romney blew away his opponents in the primary). David, however, was just a boy in a frail body with a sling and a stone and an extremely weak Israeli army to back him up. At least, that was what Goliath and his army thought. (Romney underestimated the Obama campaign). Here, is what Goliath said when David approached him:

“Am I a dog that thou comes to me with staves?” The Bible says the Philistine curse David by his gods. He then entreats David: “Come to me, and I will give thy flesh unto the fowls of the air and to the beasts of the field” (1 Samuel 17:44). Then David said to the Philistine, “Thou comes to me with a sword and a spear and a shield; but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied” (1 Samuel 17:45)

David had a secret weapon–his faith in God. He knew that the battle was not his. It was the Lord’s. Therefore, if he allowed God to fight the battle for him, he would be victorious.

Similarly, Mr. Romney is perceives as the stronger of the two candidates. He had the power of his millionaire donors behind him. Like Goliath, he was confident that he would rip his opponent apart. However, as we have learned in the David and Goliath story. Might does not always make right. Mr. Obama had the small donors–the people on his side. He knew that the greatest asset in any election was the people. Money is crucial, but money do not vote. People do.

In the end, David overcame the mighty Goliath and his Philistine army and did what he promised. He cut off Goliath’s head and gave it to the fowls. Likewise, Mr. Obama prevails over Mr. Romney. As I have said before, “Might does not always make right”.