Religion and Politics do Mix!

The United States of America has been built upon a Government of Checks and Balances. Its not only the 3 branches of Government, Legislative, Judicial, and Executive branches that serve that role, but also, “The Church”. When I write “The Church”, that means religious institutions that need to keep a tab on how governments treat God’s children and God’s earth.

Are all of God’s children treated fairly? Are some favored because of the color of their skin or their money in the bank. Should The Church be concerned with political favors paid out to insiders, while others get ignored? Do fossil fuels destroy our atmosphere in a way Solar energy does not? These issues represent places in our culture where The Church needs to proclaim support for Creation as well as All People.

The Prophets of the Old Testament often condemned the treatment of the Israelites at the hands of the monarchy. When marginalized people were not treated justly or society created rules to burden certain groups of people, the Prophets spoke out.

Recently I was told via social media, “Pastor you need to stay in your lane”, when it came to addressing a political issue from my role as pastor of Christ Lutheran church. I responded to the commentator, I guess you don’t know the role of Prophets in Scripture!

Isaiah 1:23

23 Your rulers are rebels and companions of thieves. Everyone loves a bribe and runs after gifts. They do not defend the orphan, and the widow's cause does not come before them.

Ezekiel 34:2

2 Mortal, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel (AKA the Kings): prophesy, and say to them—to the shepherds: Thus says the Lord God: Ah, you shepherds of Israel who have been feeding yourselves! Should not shepherds feed the sheep?

Prophets get killed because they speak truth to power, and power does not like that!

My hope is that faithful followers of Jesus would contemplate what Jesus teaches and proclaim a message of love for all people. This includes, respect for all people, holding people accountable who initiate acts of evil, and speaking up for the voiceless in our society. It is also a voice for Creation. We all need to be concerned with rising CO2 levels in our atmosphere. The coral reefs, rivers, and droughts can’t speak for themselves. They need advocates who understand that Creation sustains all of us.

Silence is complicit with injustice and evil! It reveals what we serve…our own peace and tranquility. Thank God for Prophets who speak out for the needs of the Earth and marginalized people.

The Church, YOU, need to follow Jesus’ lead and be concerned for others. YOU can be prophetic. The Cross of Christ is proof enough for me that sacrifice, maybe not with my life,

Calls for speaking out to powers that do not relish all lives, and disregards future generations need for a healthy planet.

New Life is always Possible!