An Assignment For YOU

One Christian's Response to the passivism vs. activism debate:

More than anything in this post I am milling my own thoughts around because of recent events that have come to pass- very hurtful events. This post has been in the making for a while, and has been in several different forms. So please bear with me as I share my thoughts on this issue, which really should not be an issue at all.

Lately I have become more and more politically active. Do not ask me how that happened. Sometimes you pick up what is laid before you, look back, and wonder how it came to be. As I have become more involved in politics, I have become increasingly aware of the fact that from the beginning of man there has been a debate about whether or not Christians should concern themselves with politics. The main premise of the passivist side (to whatever degree the passivism may be) seems to be that our focus needs to be on telling other about Jesus instead of getting caught up in the things of this world (i.e. politics). While I have no desire to prove to anyone that I am in fact evangelistic, or to make a list of things I do out of love for my church (because that would seem silly and prideful), I do wish to make a response to those who may think the ministry of political action is somehow less holy than another ministry.

First let me state that never would I think that since I'm politically active, my ministry is more important than someone else's. However, I do believe that in a changing world we are going to see many of God's people rise up to take on this ministry as the need for it is becoming incredibly evident. So I believe it's time for all Christians to begin encouraging the brethren who take up this fight rather than treating them as if they are less holy.

I believe evangelism is accomplished in all areas of life. Yes, even in politics. I believe that the political arena is a very dark place in our world today. I have no fear of that dark place because I know that God is with me and will never forsake me. I also have my buff-intimidating-if-needed-big-little brother, my strong protector-dad, and the prayers and guidance of my mom, sister and loving church family. These people love me and encourage me in my daily work as I try to encourage them in theirs- whatever it may be.

My heart aches terribly when I am told by a few (and only a few) that I should not be involved in politics. If I am to "only preach Jesus" then why does my mom tell me with such heart ache, pain, and tears about her years in a private Christian college where many, many of her friends had abortions- even in their freshman year? I can't tell you how much this saddens me. Why? Because these young women already knew Jesus! But did they understand abortion? Was there a law protecting their babies? No and no. These young women were saved already, but did that help their unborn children?

I hope that if you know me at all you know that I love the unborn and that I have a passion to rescue them from being led to the slaughter. You have probably heard from me before that in a political society it is going to take politics to end abortion. And let me be very, very clear. I have to go the whole way with this. If I believe that abortion is the murder of the most innocent and vulnerable (and I do), then I will do what needs to be done to stop it from happening. I do not want to get to Heaven and see the millions of babies who didn't have a chance at life if I cannot honestly say to them, "I fought for you. I gave 100%." It is not enough for me to tell them that I prayed and went on with my life.

Do you see how my faith and my politics go hand in hand? And friends, we do live in this world. We can't get away from that fact as much as we might try to do so. So we can either try to get away from it without succeeding, or we can do what we can to make this world a better place for future generations. Do you want your children and their children to have the opportunity to seek and save the lost without becoming martyrs? Do something about that today. And if you won't, stop putting down the people who will.

For anyone who would tell me to stay out of politics, let me ask: What would you say to Daniel? How about Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego? And Paul? And what would you say to the Israelites as they made their way out of Egypt? Would you tell them to stop? How about asking a homeschool mother and father in the late 1970s if they should be involved in politics.

As a young woman I have no desire to pursue a career. I believe the highest calling I someday might have would be that of a wife and mother. If and when God is to bring a husband into my life, I will be ready to be a full time wife and hopefully mother as well. But in the meantime I believe God has given me time to grow, work and save money, learn, and become involved in my church and community in ways that I may not be able to later. Given my intense desire to help the unborn, I have found myself in surprisingly interesting situations lately. My life has taken many very exciting turns, and God has opened unbelievable doors for me. I am so thankful and excited. All the glory only to God. I intend to take advantage of all of these opportunities and I know so many brethren are completely supportive of me in these endeavors. Thank you so much. Thank you to those of you who have discussed this very topic with me and encouraged me- you know who you are. I am hurt by a few and I hope that those who would condemn my ministry (politics is actually one of many) would realize that evangelism comes in many forms. Cooking for potluck, cooking for neighbors, anonymously donating to causes, driving widows around, caring for children, teaching, cleaning the church building, personal Bible studies with others, becoming a Godly politician, and thousands more (I'm sure you can add to the list with your unique talents, blessings and abilities). Please, let's encourage one another, not treat some ministries as if they are less worthy.

If you managed to get this far, which I doubt, please please please do not respond by quoting a scripture that you believe proves politics and evangelism are mutually exclusive. And do not respond by asking me how many people I've converted today. I do have an assignment for you though. Two simple things:

1. Think of a Godly politician or candidate you know (this could be difficult). Send them a hand written note of thanks and encouragement. The ministry they have chosen is a difficult one, and one that is so vitally needed.

2. Think of a brother or sister who you have privately thought that their ministry might be a little less important than yours. Maybe a widow who cooked a special meal or the shy and quiet member who shows up to every assembly. Send that person a note letting them know that you have noticed their ministry, and that you're thankful for them.

Please do this and know that you will uplift me on a day when I need it. In the process, you will encourage two people who also need it. May God bless you in whatever ministry He has set before you.