The more I get to know Jesus, the more I realize He would turn over tables at the Republican National Convention as much as He would at the Democrat's. He would wonder why so many people who so strongly support "family values" worry more about staying at work late for extra money than spending time at the dinner table. He would wonder why people who want tax cuts would spend all of that money on themselves instead of using to bless the poor.
Now before you think I am turning Democrat, let examine the other side. I am not in favor of the government taking my money and distributing it for me. First of all, there are way too many people between my tax dollars and the poor. My guess is that most of the money that goes to welfare serves the welfare of government workers, not those who are in need. Second, government is providing help without a heart. There is money, but very little guidance.
As we look at this mess called poverty no party is innocent. The Republicans love to blame the Democrats for creating an entitlement mentality, and they are right. When people are giving money without accountability what do you expect. But the Democrats have a point when they say Republicans don't care about the poor either. They allege that Republicans don't care about the poor, and they are right. One side wants to hand out money. The other side wants to force responsbility.
Both sides have good motives, but they both fall miserably short. Let's look at Jesus and see how He would handle this situation today. (And since we are the body of Christ who is called to be His hands and feet, don't you think we should consider what Jesus thinks?)
Jesus helped the poor and held them accountable. He was willing to give His time, His energy, and even His reputation to help those who were "unwanted" by society. He was both Servant and Savior. He loved and challenged people. When He encountered the woman caught in adultery, He didn't just give her a handout and He didn't tell her to help herself. He protected her and gave her new direction in life. When Jesus met the woman at the well, He gave her living water and challenged her to change her life.
Jesus would have rediculed the Republicans for being self-centered as much as He would have chastised the Democrats for being self-centered. Responsiblity without support is just as bad as a handout without support.
While I could go on and on, I will finish with this thought. If Jesus wouldn't have claimed a political party, why should I? Will I still vote? Yes. Jesus said to "give unto Caesar, what is Caesar's." But will I claim allegence to a political party? I am working through that right now.
I have been a Republican all my life. I have a minor in political science. But Jesus seems to be calling to me to rise above all the noise, namecalling, and nonsense. I will follow Him and see where it leads me.
shine!
Jason
No comments:
Post a Comment