It has been almost 3 years since I got my first email from Turning Point USA inviting me to an “amazing opportunity.” It was a chance to gather with other Christian pastors to hear about how we, together, could stem the rising tide of “darkness and wickedness” in America. Together, we could “stand up for our values, defend biblical truths, and let the Holy Spirit work in our lives … we can face the darkness of our nation and, ultimately, be victorious in His name.” I saw it for what it was, and still is – a newer, shinier version of the Moral Majority. From July through December of 2023, I got a steady stream of emails and letters inviting me to attend these gatherings, but I guess my lack of response led them to drop me from the mailing list. I kept the emails, though; I knew this was going to matter.
I have been accused of being “too political”, and maybe for some people, I am. I am careful about what I attend in the community, because I am known well enough by a variety of people to be recognize, and I cannot lend my support to non-partisan events. I have attended a number of protests recently because they are speaking to growing concerns that people of many perspectives find troubling. And my alleged political statements are, I think, in line with the teachings of Jesus. That is, when people think I am getting political, it is usually because I am quoting the words of Scripture and speaking truth to power – the way Jesus did. And He was so political that the government murdered Him, legally using capital punishment.
Since the tragic death of Charlie Kirk, TPUSA has continued its unholy alliance with right-wing politics, pretending to be non-partisan and open to conversation. And while Kirk was touted as a proponent of free speech, his agenda was pretty clear – women should be quiet and home raising children, abortion should not ever be allowed, and America should run on Christian values. And if you freely choose these things, I support your choices – just like I would expect you to support mine. If you want to try to live according to your interpretation of Scripture, and you don’t force everyone to do the same, more power to you – I support your choices – just like I would expect you to support mine. The problem is this: the unholy part of it is using religion to control people against their will. That isn’t about faith – that’s about power. And my reading of Scripture tells me that God does not approve. But the Devil does. Faith is a choice, not a mandate.
Prayer – Holy God, I hope that every person loves You and serves neighbors, but I also hope that they do this out of their own free will, not coercion. May Your love continue to grow in the world. Amen.
Today’s art is “Speak Truth” by Kimeko Torres.