Wednesday, November 5, 2008

considering

In all the post-election reflecting I've been doing, and praying for God to realign my focus and heart (as I mentioned in my previous post recognizing how overly-vested in this all I've been), I've been challenged by a few videos we came across. Here's one of the clips I found very interesting, thought-provoking and challenging. I know that generally most of my readers aren't really big 'commenters' for some reason (I do so wish you folks would weigh in - I love comments!), but I'd love to hear any responses or thoughts you have after watching this clip. I have several thoughts/opinions, and though I won't share any of them at the moment, I will just say that I really like and respect all three of the men on this panel and find what each says worth consideration. If you like the discussion, there are more clips on youtube discussing various topics.


Also, for a good, challenging, Biblical perspective on what our response should be, as Christians, to the outcome of the election can be found here:

http://bobhyatt.typepad.com/bobblog/2008/11/why-im-thankful-for-obama.html

6 comments:

Laura said...

interesting... no ideas that are brand new to me, but it represents a tension i feel...

yeah, we are not of this world (country), but i don't think that means that we shouldn't be political (vote, run for office, be in the army). I don't understand how you can so on one side "i'm pro-life" and turn and not give a rip about that issue when you vote.

One place I have questioned more is the non-violence issue... and I definatly lean to the side of believing a christian can serve in the military... yet I have a couple of reservations. Ya know, do good to your enemies and all that.

Holly said...

That's really interesting Jess... I don't know who those guys are, but I did think that there were some good points raised. I think mostly I’ll share my thoughts on Christians in the military. I don't think there is anything Biblical about NOT serving in the military. I believe that it’s not only our right, but our duty to serve in the military. I believe we can do good to our enemies, and it’s OK to do that outside of military service. There are many who served before us (and are still serving) that helped protect the rights we have enjoy now and without them we may not even be having this discussion, and for that I'm so thankful! I know of may who served "before" us that were/are Christians and think they represented not only our country, but our Lord thru their service and their lives.

So as not to repeat myself I’ll share one more thought! I believe that no matter what happens in our county God is still in control, that He knew before hand what would be happening and who would be President and He's still the final say! In that I take great comfort!

Bets said...

both the clip and the blog were thought provoking and challenging... I tend to agree more with the old guy in the clip supporting Christians in military service; I think that "doing good to your enemies" applies often to the political response of country to opposing country before it comes to the point of military action, when it is then our country's right and duty to defend ourselves against the evil of this world - I am pretty far from pacifistic (sp?). There's a lot tumbling around in my head right now and I'm not sure that I can give a good voice to all the thoughts yet. Anyway - good food for thought...

Anonymous said...

This is a hot topic among christian believers today. We actually have this discussion with our son, Jesse, quite often. The young man in the clip with the dreads is Shane and attends Jesse's church in Philly. They are totally against war and most just voted for Obama for that reason. I think that he is using scripture out of context here. I tend to agree with Chuck Colson, maybe b/c that is what I have always heard and therefore believe. God definately talks about war and rumors of war in the scripture that will continue to the end. Do I like war, no, do I believe God can be involved in it, absolutely.

Holly said...

I should have known that was Chuck Colson!

~ Straight Shooter ~ said...

Read all your well thought out comments on Political Moms and wanted to commend you! I did not visit her site as the election got closer b/c of the tension I could feel rising between the two parties. One of my best friends (staunch conservative) has swayed so far to the left this year b/c of Obama's influence. She is having major marital issues...and wonders why her husband doesn't understand her anymore. I want to shout, "Duh!" at her most days.
I am so glad it is over. Not glad for the outcome, but glad it is over.
Like Pharoah's reign over the Jews during the time of Moses, we shall endure and bring glory to God as well.
Thank you for standing up for your heartfelt beliefs!