The Church Wants Social Justice Back

There are two things I really don't like talking about. 1) Money. Oh man. I really don't have a clue where our money is, how much we spend each month or what we invest in. It's not that I don't care, it's just that I REALLY don't care. I give you permission the next time you see my husband to give him a sympathetic look or a pat on the back. That man is a good one. 2) Politics. The current rantings on facebook from both my liberal and conservative friends makes me well, sad. Not because I don't think they have the right to express their opinions or to disagree with each other (keep it civil people) but because I'm pretty sure Jesus desired for us to live in peace.

The 2012 election and some conversations with some of my friends has me fired up however. Then Beth Moore has to echo what has been rolling around in my head the past six months. (For the record, I love it when someone I respect is thinking the same thing.) So here it is; my political rant for this morning.

We, the Church, want social justice back! I don't know how you politicians stole it away from us but it's ours. Hand.It.Over. You use it to earn votes and to appear like a caring candidate. We do it to honor God and live out Matthew 22:39, "Love your neighbor as yourself." How did the Republican party get viewed as a rich, church-going eliteist group that doesn't care about the poor, the minority or the marginalized in our society? How come the Democrats are viewed as the party that cares about and for these groups? I don't see politics in the Bible when Jesus tells us to care for the poor, widowed and orphan. I don't see a donkey or elephant pinned on any disciples tunic as they shared their money with one another and then gave it away to others. Now I know some political experts and historians are shaking their heads right now and saying, "she is so naive and silly." I understand that both political parties have helped create their storied histories. I just wonder why we look to them for direction on social justice when we should be looking to the Church?

I want social justice back. I don't want it used for political gain. I want to live it. I want my heart to break for what breaks God's heart. Oh Lord; please break my heart for what breaks yours.