Is Jesus Republican or Democrat?
On looking beyond the mark.
Thought
Are we far enough past the election to share this thought? Probably not. In our ever polarizing nation it seems almost impossible sometimes to maintain civil conversation, and this problem is no stranger to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
I was bewildered and surprised when I moved to America when I heard a sister in one of my first Sunday school meetings openly disparage President Obama during the class. On another occasion whilst teaching seminary full time in Utah, another instructor boldly stated “How can any member of the church vote democrat”.
It has been my observation as we have lived in several wards in three different states, that many members of the church hold an idea, whether implied or stated, that Republicans are for Jesus and Democrats are for the Devil.
For this reason I chose to wear a donkey on my lapel to church this past election cycle. Not because I am one, I’m not a Republican either, in fact I’m still not eligible to vote as a permanent resident. I did so to make a silent point.
If all are supposed to feel welcome at church, why are we as baptized, covenant keeping members of the Lord’s restored church talking about other people like they are blind, stupid or evil because they voted differently? As a side note, I realize that this problem does go both ways. But I am speaking here from my own experience, albeit limited I know.
It’s possible to handpick, and remove context from select verses to support just about any political candidate or cause. But I cannot help thinking that Christ would be very unimpressed with the way we sometimes conduct ourselves.
Even if we believed the other side to be deluded, should we not, in a proper and affectionate manner try to reclaim them? I remember being yelled at on Weston-Super-Mare’s high street as a recently returned missionary after another street preaching Christian learned I was a Latter Day Saint.
I thought then how ridiculous it was for him to treat me ‘a sinner’ in his eyes with such contempt, as though that approach would cause me to change my ways.
When I was teaching seminary in Utah, a student once asked me if I was a Republican or Democrat, I responded that I was a Disciple of Jesus Christ.
So is Jesus a Republican or Democrat? I don’t know. I suspect neither. I do believe however that He is the Savior and Redeemer for ALL who come unto Him, bond or free, male or female, black or white, and yes, absolutely whether we voted for a Democrat or a Republican this past election.
Quote.
An open mind, in questions that are not ultimate, is useful. But an open mind about the ultimate foundations either of Theoretical or of Practical Reason is idiocy. If a man’s mind is open on these things, let his mouth at least be shut.
- C.S. Lewis (The Abolition of Man, p.48)
Idea.
There is no expiration date for making a sincere apology for past shortcomings or intentional hurt. Perhaps a sincere apology is long over due and would go a long way to healing a hurt.