Trying to live the life that Jesus modeled and has called us
to isn’t easy. It would be easier if we could be totally surrounded by others
who are also trying to follow Jesus. The world we live in, however, plays by very
different rules. One of the most dangerous temptations Christians fall into is the
“let’s beat them at their own game” mindset. This way of thinking believes that
Christian ideals should be brought about by any means necessary. We should
wield political power, and rally blocks of voters to persuade politicians
to enforce Christian rules. If we disagree with businesses, we should boycott
their products and services. Hit them where it hurts. Pressure them financially
to back down or change course. Military power can be leveraged as well. After “the
saints go marching in”, let’s send the Marines.
We picket. We protest. We buy billboards for Christians
slogans. We try to beat the world using the tactics of
the world. For the most part, I don’t believe this has come about as a result of
bad motives. Many Christians fear for their world, and the damage that is being
done through reckless and selfish actions. Whether the motives are good or
bad however, this is not how Jesus modeled for us to influence the world.
Remember….
Jesus could have politically outmaneuvered the Pharisees and
the Roman government. He was astounding religious leaders in the temple with
his understanding even as a child. He had the ability to outsmart the system
and to bring political change.
But He didn’t.
Jesus could have used military force to conquer the world.
Angel armies beat any other armies you can imagine. Jesus had access to all the
firepower He could have needed. Many of his followers were
spoiling for a good fight anyway
But He didn’t.
Jesus could have bought and sold Rome thousands of times
over. The wealth of heaven is pretty formidable. When you use gold as pavement,
you live in pretty swanky neighborhood.
But He didn’t.
Jesus method was different. Jesus loved people. He was
honest. And when the time came, He suffered and died. The resulting change in
hearts and minds has lasted for over 2000 years and has touched every corner of
the world.
Like Jesus we are called to love a world that will often not
love us back. We are called to be honest and humble when arrogance and lying
most often win the day. We are called to lose at every turn and to love those
who seem to be defeating us. The way of Jesus isn’t the way of the world. When we
follow Jesus we can stay calm even when it feels that the world is crumbling
all around us. God has been at work. He is at work, and He will complete His
work. That completed work will be far more wonderful, peace-filled, and
fulfilling than anything we can imagine.
So, Christian friends, here are a few thoughts:
Vote. Have a voice politically. But don’t lose your mind
when your candidate doesn’t win. And quit calling the other candidate an
antichrist. It makes us all look bad.
Support our military men and women for the sacrifices they
make for our country. Be there for them in their times of need when they return
home. But stop taking joy in the thought that “bad guys” will be blown off the
map. Jesus died for them too. They should be held accountable for their actions,
but God never gives up on anyone. So, you should stop doing it.
Be wise financially. Spend you money on things that last. Use it to bring mercy and hope. After all, money can never buy you safety and security. It’ll only rent them for a while. In the end, mercy and hope are better investments.
Photo Courtesy of Death To Stock Photo
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