For the past several years, I have heard folks at Skyland say things along the lines of “… we are too political…” or “… the church delves in political matters too much…” While I wholeheartedly disagree, I cannot help but take any ounce of criticism to heart and ponder what may be behind this statement or any statement made in fair criticism of what the church is doing or not doing.
My sermons are rarely ever political. I get some feedback indicating that there may be, on occasion, a political slant. But, this only comes from 1 or 2, and it is rarely verbalized. I get feedback from Skyland constituents indicating that there is a lack of “politics” in my preaching. They want to know where I stand in matters of importance to our country and our world, or they want to hear a definitive word from the church on such matters as immigration, healthcare, war, and the list goes on. Can anyone remotely see the challenge of today’s preacher?
Here’s a gauge- here’s what I know: the Apostle Paul writes, “If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.” (I Corinthians 12:26). This verse is specifically tailored for the members of a faith community. Is it political? Well, it doesn’t matter. If someone is suffering- whether it is related to her rising cost in medical prescription bills, or whether or not he should be forced to kill in military combat- we all suffer with those persons. If a person who is in a same-sex relationship wonders about her/his life’s value in the eyes of the Christian community, that may cause duress; thus, it should cause duress for us all. If a person feels alienated from God in any shape, form or fashion, it behooves us all to struggle with that person and walk beside that person until there be some reconciliation.
Just as a person’s entire body feels the pain when they stub their toe, the verse means that the struggles, pain, or successes of one individual intimately affect the entire community of believers. And, to my knowledge, the Apostle does not limit the struggle, the pain, or the successes to “non-political” matters. Whatever “baggage” a person brings into our Colonnade or Worship spaces on any given Sunday, it affects us all! We are, after all, a faith community. What concerns you definitely concerns me (and I am speaking about ME-Joe! And, I am of the belief that “me” should include you, too).
A lot of people carry a lot “weight” on their shoulders. Our love, our kindness, our understanding, our affirmation, our grace should be exercised for the sake of community members. Is it political? I don’t know. Is it biblical, or is it Christian? You bet it is!
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