A People Divided
In my years in ministry (and life in general) I have observed a strange phenomenon among a group of people. Where ever I go I seem to find individuals or groups who seem to draw their identity from crisis. Oh, they will articulate it as genuine suffering- be it illness, financial woes or relational breakdowns (often a combination of them all and more). However, when it comes down to it, they seem to draw a sense of excitement, meaning and power from being the “victim” of their circumstances. For many it seems to stem out of need to be special, set apart by their suffering.
With the election of Barack Obama as the next President of the United States of America, I have begun to observe this same kind of trend- groups of people who seem to thrill in proclaiming doom, gloom and judgment for the nation. They “know” this is not God’s will, which can only mean that any who voted for Obama did not (and do not) know His will, blinded by the enemy, by the world, by secularism, by their ignorance. They paint pictures of the future that offer no hope, but sullenly promise that the unfaithful will get what they deserve. They, of course, will suffer too, but it will be the martyred suffering of God’s remnant. From this they seem to define themselves.
Let me be clear: I am not suggesting that all who voted for McCain believe or act in this way. Neither do I believe that the opposite is true- that a vote for Obama is a fulfillment of God’s divine purpose. Both views elevate the political sphere to a level of importance that is too lofty, neglecting the reality that the Church is responsible for change, not beholding to any government to produce it. Those of us who are happy with the results of the election must also have the wisdom and humility to acknowledge that Obama has and will make mistakes that are too big to ignore. His policies on several issues grieve me deeply. We MUST listen to the voices of caution, as they carry a wisdom we lack. There were many good and right reasons to vote for McCain and we must respect that.
So how do we respond to those so devoted to the belief that America has become an “Obamantion” to the Lord? For most- people who we do not know, but simply interact with in passing- I suspect ignoring it might be the greatest wisdom. Being drawn in to a debate is likely only to drive the divide further, playing out before a watching world our petty divisiveness. I am not suggesting we ignore the issues, but rather choose where we will place our energies and add our voices. Most often peoples ignorance will prove themselves out without any help from others.
However, for many, these divides are between family and friend, between beloved brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ. How do we respond then? Oh God, for the grace, patience, humility and wisdom to love those with whom we differ!
What do you say? How do we best respond?
those so devoted to the belief that America has become an “Obamantion” to the Lord?
Gee - that’s a new one! There sure seem to be a lot of sore losers out there who know exactly what the Lord is thinking. I guess all those millions here and around the world who were crying tears of joy must be wrong… misled… blinded by … what? Some evil demon?
President Elect Obama’s message has always been one of peace and hope and unity. I’m not sure what it is about him that is such an abomination…
I know these aren’t your views Jamie but you must be hearing a lot of negative out there if you would mention it on your blog. And personally, seeing the word “Obamantion” for the first time and used in this context is really incredibly offensive to me.
Thanks for the opportunity to respond.
Marty
Jamie … there absolutely were good and well-thought out reasons for voting for Mr. McCain. Indeed, I have many friends who voted for him. Just as I have friends who supported and voted for Obama.
It’s been interesting to me to notice something. My daughter’s hockey team is made up of people from a variety of backgrounds. There were McCain people and Obama people there and we all managed to be very respectful of each other. We talked through different issues at various times. But no one ever thought anyone else was stupid or thoughtless for making the decisions they made. We all assumed that each person was a thoughtful, engaged adult who made responsible decisions to the best of their abilities. We might not agree with those decisions, but that was fine. It was never a personal affront. We even managed to tell jokes in both directions without damaging anyone.
I think that’s the way it’s supposed to be. Too many people take up the Bible and proclaim the Word of God to manipulate others onto “their side.” It’s emotional bludgeoning that’s really not fair; and I’ve seen it done primarily from the right, but the left is beginning to engage in it as well. Why not just let people make up their own minds?
It’s okay to disagree with people and go on to talk about other things. It’s okay to say, “You think X is important, but to me Y is more important so I’m going to weigh that when I make my decision.” It’s not a character flaw on either person to say that and I don’t know why it’s become that way.
Hey there,
Let me say that my response on my blog to the use of that word and the accompanying BS has been intentionally tempered. I have been livid about it. My work has me crossing paths with a lot of Evangelicals in the US- people I know and love, but who seem different people with respect to this issue. SO many people… Too many…
Peace,
Jamie
Hey Sonja,
I don’t know either and it really grieves me. Glad to hear it is not the same all over.
Peace,
Jamie
Jamie, around here NOT thinking that the “end is near” is cause for deep suspicion! We are keeping our mouths shut, but just waiting for certain family members to begin the wailing and gnashing. Then we will need lots of that patience, grace, humility and wisdom!
Hey Cindy,
That is rough. More power to ya!
Peace,
Jamie
Jamie, I don’t think a response is necessary.
Hey Jonathan,
While there might be instances where a response is not needed, I would have to disagree with you in the general. I have been dialoguing with at least three people this week who were facing significant alienation (even rejection) from family and/or friends over this issue. There needs to be a way to bridge that gap- or at least attempt to.
Peace,
Jamie
In YWAM, we were always told to “act in the opposite spirit” as a means of warfare. That of course being a biblical idea…”do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
There is a tendency in me (something I’ve even encouraged) to meet audacity with audacity. The thought being, if a person saying stupid, petty things is willing to do that out in the open then they are actually inviting me to take them down out in the open. But more and more, I know this is wrong. It is not the way of Jesus. If my motive is to “get them” and not to encourage deeper understanding of Jesus, then I am going the wrong way.
At the very least, a concerned personal letter or, taking it up a notch, would be a phone call, a coffee meeting…a “taking aside” and asking questions for clarity. Like the Franciscan way…seeking to understand more than being understood.
The morning after the election, I opened our inbox and there were a few selections there entitled “scary times ahead”. Shallow thinking Christians in the States are worried about socialism because they have been taught that it’s the worst kind of evil. They are worried that a president’s abortion policies will bring judgement on our country including them. They don’t see how the current administration while in policy is anti-abortion, it is definitely not “pro-life” in all it’s aspects. They don’t see that times have been “scary” for quite a while. So they are afraid of the unknown.
They’ve forgotten that God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power, love and soundness of mind. It’s the fear I would address. Just to reassure people that they don’t have to be afraid. To communicate in a way that will help them see Jesus and understand Jesus in a more worthy way.
Thanks for holding back and communicating with civility. I just heard a sermon around that verse “let your words be full of grace and seasoned with salt”. The minister pointed out that lately, Christians seem to read it backwards…”full of salt with a little bit of grace”. Your blog always makes me think of the former. Thanks for writing. See you tomorrow!
Hey Chris,
Words of clear wisdom and honesty, as usual. Thanks so much for weighing in. Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow!
Peace,
Jamie
Hey Jamie,
Jonathan and I were talking about this last night and it seems that there are a lot of mean spirited people out there, it’s like, as Brother Maynard wrote on his blog yesterday that they truly think that God is a republican. It’s a kind of Christianity I just don’t want to be associated with.
They should give Obama a chance. He is, after all, a Christian as well … unless you believe the propaganda. For me, I can really see how I think God has been working through this election. I’m not saying he is God’s man, likewise I’m not saying McCain was God’s man because I simply don’t know. God hasn’t informed me of his decision like he has with so many others! What I will say though is that many, many Christians were praying that God’s man won, so maybe God’s man did.
Obama, like every president, will make mistakes and decisions that not every one will agree with.
As Sonja wrote we have to be honest with people and love them but say “you think X but I think y” - sadly though there are many narrow and closed minds IMO.
Hey Lyn,
I agree, though I guess I am less than hopeful that they will listen. All I can do is be willing to listen to the voices I disagree with, but need to at least understand. That is tough and humbling. Thanks for sharing!
Peace,
Jamie
Jamie — Thank you for your heartfelt and thoughtful words. My wife and I, as co-pastors of our church community, have definitely felt this tension. In fact, we’ve been getting all kinds of crazed pamphlets, flyers and even faxes (faxes!) at church proclaiming the imminent apocalyptic doom awaiting the United States because of our new president-elect. Sigh.
We have chosen not to voice our political opinions, even in private conversations with our church community, because of the intense polarization between red & blue. We have been urging grace, wisdom and understanding, but it’s hard when many of our friends receive (and forward) all the shrill hate-emails circulating around under the guise of promoting “Christian” values. Humility, gentleness and self-control get drowned out by the loudspeakers people are using to promote fear, division and hatred.
Thank you for pointing out that, as much as we’re called to be engaged, our ultimate hope isn’t in any candidate, policy or government.
Hey Daniel,
It is refreshing to hear of such tempered and humble leadership in this respect. Thank you for sharing it here!
Peace,
Jamie
What an encouraging thread, Jamie. You’ve obviously got some unusual evangelical people reading your blog.
The right wing captivity of the evangelical church has to end as soon as possible. Evangelistic credibility depends–particularly in a post modern era–on the ability to see both sides now.
Hey Tom,
I agree, very encouraging. The challenge is that, as Americans, these issues are rooted in the historic formation of our identity- not in a generally positive way. It will take real work! Thanks!
Peace,
Jamie
Assuming someone else is wrong is never the place to start a good discussion. Seeing the opposing viewpoint can be difficult to do at times, but important…even when the person holding that viewpoint is being obnoxious and rude about the way they portray it.
Hey Trevor,
A difficult and essential thing to do. Thanks!
Peace,
Jamie
Yep, I have to agree - there is definitely a significant alienation going on in some communities towards those who voted for Obama. I have no answer for what to do about it, I can only say I am TIRED of it…. deeply weary and discouraged.
One of my friends wrote something about her vote for Obama on her blog, and she received responses calling her a son of devil and other horrible such things. My salvation has been questioned multiple times, and the insituation that I and other Obama-voters are participating in “baby killing” and the destruction of our nation. Just this morning a friend wrote a facebook note to all the “Christians” who voted for Obama.
My reaction in every case it to attempt to call for grace and respect, even in disagreement. It is rarely returned.
I’m deeply disappointed in the response of American conservative Christians.
Hey Kacie,
I completely understand and agree with you. I have shared in the experiences you told of. I am trying to be hopeful, but it is difficult. Thanks for sharing!
Peace,
Jamie
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