If I had to describe myself in 10 words or less, I would use the phrase "God and country." I love Jesus Christ for WHO He is and WHAT He did. I also love the United States of America and all that this country stands for -- freedom, opportunity, hope, and possibility. I love politics for the simple reason that I love America. I also believe that as a Christian we have a right and a responsibility to be engaged in the the direction and vision of our country. I do not subscribe to the unwritten, unconstitutional, and unbiblical belief that religion should not mix with politics and that the sacred and secular should be separated. In this next series of posts, I'll explain why.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights …” – so begins the most important paragraph penned about our nation. The principles contained in these famous words have guided and inspired our government, communities, soldiers, and citizens for generations. Behind these principles lies the power that has allowed America to endure dark and tumultuous hours and yet consistently shine as a beacon of hope and opportunity.
The power behind America’s endurance and success comes directly from our Creator. Our founding fathers derived a vision for mankind’s existence, America’s independence, and government’s purpose from the Almighty Himself. The quest for religious liberty lured Christian settlers to come to America. During the dramatic days of our nation’s birth religious expression dominated the political landscape, shaped our new nation’s philosophy, and inspired us to fight a war with the reigning superpower. The proposition of the founders was simple: God had given certain “unalienable” rights to everyone and no man or government could ever take them away. Chief among those rights was that God created us to live with freedom, dignity, and equality.
The recognition of this link between God and our freedom is central not only to our nation’s birth but also to our nation’s continued prosperity. The founders wisely realized that the stronger this link, the stronger our nation. President George Washington maintained in his Farewell Address that religion and morality are “indispensable supports” to life in America. We too must realize that if the link between liberty and God is weakened or severed, then the great power behind America’s enduring success will be endangered.
This is why we as a nation founded by faith principles and comprised of vast communities of faith must continually renew our commitment to reliance upon our Creator, not only for individual spiritual freedom but also for political and national freedom. God’s hand in our personal and national histories is always a cause for awe and thanksgiving. But it cannot be taken for granted or allowed to be forgotten. God-given gifts, like freedom, bring God-expected responsibilities.
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