When buzzwords fail

Many of us who are Christians can feel a sense of comfort when we hear a politician using familiar religious language. A quick Scripture quote here, a nod to shared beliefs there – it’s natural to feel a connection. But are we called to something deeper than this shorthand?

This question has nagged at me for years. Through prayer, study, and a lot of thoughtful reflection, I've come to see that God's idea of justice and compassion runs far deeper than any campaign slogan. The Old Testament prophet Micah’s words stand out to me: “Do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” These aren’t separate ideals; they’re threads woven together, each supporting the other. Pull on one, and the whole thing starts to fray.

In the early days of the church, believers faced similar dilemmas. They were under Roman rule and had to navigate issues like taxes and citizenship without compromising their faith. Yet, they didn’t gravitate toward leaders who only spoke “religiously.” Instead, they sought a framework for living that honored God in all aspects of life, including politics.

Now, with a few more years behind me, I’m learning to ask questions that push past surface-level sound bites. When I’m evaluating a policy or position, I find myself asking: does this approach recognize the inherent worth of each person as bearing God’s image? Does it reflect compassion for those on the margins, as we’re often reminded to do? Does it encourage stewardship of the earth and our resources?

Sometimes, these questions don’t lead to easy answers. I’ve had to wrestle with political opinions that don’t always align with others in my community. But these discussions, when done humbly, lead to a deeper, more nuanced understanding.  Sometimes it's difficult. 

It’s easy to fall into the habit of cherry-picking verses to justify a position, but that often leads to shallow conversations. I’m learning to consider the broader implications of policies – how they affect those who have the least power or voice, whether they uphold both truth and grace, and how they align with God’s character. Engaging thoughtfully with politics doesn’t always mean finding the simplest answer, but it often leads to the most faithful response.

For me, Christian citizenship goes beyond finding politicians who speak my language. It’s about engaging thoughtfully, comparing policies with biblical principles, and asking how these choices align with the life and teachings of Jesus. This can feel like more work than just reacting to religiously framed sound bites, but I think it’s a step toward being a faithful citizen of both our earthly communities and God’s kingdom.

As we navigate the ups and downs of political seasons, I’m reminded of Jesus’s words about being “wise as serpents and innocent as doves.” Maybe that wisdom means looking past polished packaging and diving into the substance, weighing everything against the counsel of Scripture, and aiming to reflect Christ in how we engage.

It’s not always straightforward. But by committing to a more holistic view of politics through the lens of our faith, we may find ourselves better equipped to seek the good of our communities while remembering where our ultimate citizenship lies.

In the end, our goal isn’t to find a politician who echoes our favorite verses but to participate in ways that honor God and serve others. This path requires discernment and a willingness to look beyond the surface. It calls us to understand the times and respond with both wisdom and compassion.  It won't be easy.  

Be blessed ~wcd