Posted by
SLopez on Tuesday, October 07, 2008 12:27:36 PM
In today's society, Christian evangelicals are not looked at "the same" as times past. Christian evangelicals were at one time a voice to be heard and respected. However in today's society, the Christian voice has been "downsized" to being fundamentalist haters. It amazes me how society is tolerant of other religions (no matter how radical they may be); yet when it comes to Christianity there seems to be no tolerance whatsoever. Evangelicals have been given the label "right-wing, fundamental, bible thumping, pew jumping, intolerant, homophobes!" Yet, it may be the evangelical vote that shifts this whole election once again. I have been asked on several occasions as to how an evangelical should vote. I want to give you some thought and would like to hear from you as to whether you agree, disagree or can add some extra focus as to the following.
Today, the (3) main issues in America are (not necessarily in this order), 1.) The War On Terror 2.) Financial Deficit 3.) Health Care.
Although these issues are very important and may impact me as well, I as a Christian do not vote based on these three issues. I will explain in a moment. My vote and focus is not necessarily on social issues as much as they are on the issues of morality (i.e. abortion, partial birth abortion, stem cell research, sanctity of mariage, homosexual marriages). I believe that when morality has its voice, society changes for the best. However, when we take a more "postmodern and relativist" approach, language than finds itself entangled in a web of political correctness and liberalism! This is why, the vote on morality is crucial. Change the heart of man, man can than change the course of a culture! You might ask as to why I don't vote based on the above (3) issues, well here is my explanation. As a Christian, I believe that the Bible is the word of God. Thus, I have built my life, ideology and my faith on the foundation of God's holy word. Thus, let me begin with the "War On Terror". Though I don't want war, the Bible says to us in Matthew 24 that "war" is inevitable. In other words, there will always be war. So whether it was Bush in office, Gore, Kerry, Obama or McCain, war will always be. Therefore, I don't vote against what the Bible says is inevitable. It's kind of like voting against the cold weather in December and you live in Colorado! It's inevitable. Second is the "Financial Deficit". Every American, including myself, is feeling the inflation and financial stretch. However, as a Christian, though I live and reside in America, I await a life one day with Christ in heaven. What brings me joy and reassurance is not that we passed a $700 billion bailout, but that my hope is found in my provider-Father God! I don't place my hope on the shoulders of a government, but on the shoulders of the One in whom even the government is on! Thus my hope is in Christ Jesus. Finally, "Health Care." I thank God that I do have medical coverage for my family. It is however very expensive, so I understand what it feels like to pay out the ears for health coverage. Yet, my hope when I am sick is not in Unicare, Blue Cross-Blue Shield, or any other insurance company. My healer is the Lord. So whether He heals me temporarily on earth or decides to heal me eternally by taking me to heaven, I know from where comes my help! Therefore, I vote not on the issues that God takes care of for those who truly belong to Him, but I vote and focus on the issues that effect the eternity of the human heart and soul.
I realize this blog may have been a little too "preachy", I just wanted to give you some insights as to how an evangelical should vote. As a Conservative Latino, I feel it is my earthly duty to encourage not only my Latino/Hispanic people, but all races, all genders and cultures, to remind them that as Christian evangelicals there is no reason to hide in the closet, but to step out and let your voice be heard that there is truly a God in heaven and that the world is better with Him in control!
Until Next Time- SLopez