Some say that religion and politics are twin issues that one should not get into if you want to have a more peaceful life. Engaging in discussions about politics and/or religion will only lead to heated arguments and ruined relationships according to some. Well, I guess most of the time that’s true. But it doesn’t have to be that way I would suppose. I believe any topic whether politics or religion can be discussed in a friendly and gentlemanly manner. There is really no need to be rude to one another.
Oftentimes these days, we read on social media of people’s comments about religion or politics with fiery passion and conviction. Some are quick and very bold to voice out their opinions for or against an issue regardless of who gets hurt and even condemn those who oppose their strongly held convictions. Some are quick to comment without thinking haha! Instead of discussing purely an issue, these conversations usually lead to heated arguments, name calling and insults. And some are openly expressing their views filled with hate, anger and curses. It happens all the time at Facebook. But the good Book does remind us to “let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Col. 4:6). It’s a good reminder when we join conversations whether it be face-to-face or on the internet.
Politics
As for me, having grown up as a son of a former politician, I know first hand how hard life can be if one is heavily involved in politics. It can be tough for the family too. There is no such thing as a “private life” for the family of a politician. I have therefore tried not to talk about or get involved in politics as much as possible. “I’ve been there”—so to speak. But it doesn’t mean I won’t ever talk about politics if the need arises. It doesn’t mean as well that I’m not concerned about what’s going on in the country today.
Religion
As to religion, well, I am a pastor since 1985 and I can talk about religion for hours if you want me to haha! I do get involved in theological discussions once in a while in the hope of helping people see the light—the True Light that shines in the darkness. Religion has such a bad name nowadays that when you mention the word, people think of it as “the opiate of the people.” Or maybe some would think that it’s just big business run by manipulative religious nuts bent on getting your money out of your pocket and into their own pockets.
True Religion
But the good Book does mention that there is such a thing as true religion as well which is different from the bad kind. According to James, true religion that is pure and undefiled is to visit the poor, the widows and the fatherless. It means loving your neighbor and helping them in their need. Instead of rumor-mongering and spreading gossip and lies, this person has integrity and can truly be considered “honorable.” A real God-fearing politician or religious person does truly love and is truly concerned about the welfare of his people. Just my thoughts.
“If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.” (James 1:26-27)
