Voter Integrity

We are so quick to question the integrity of our political representatives. What if we began to question our own voting integrity with the same passion? How often do we vote according to looks, charisma, or party loyalty, even though the candidate may have clearly demonstrated a lack of integrity and/or hold a position contrary to our conscience? How often do we fail to take the time to research, usually copping out by saying, "how can we really know?" How often do we simply vote for the "popular" candidate? How often do we allow for a political party platform that promotes unbiblical positions on issues, but gets away with it due to "blind" party loyalty?

The political process is too important to fail in this basic responsibility to get engaged. We need to register to vote and seek understanding during this election season. Then we need to actually show up and vote. Let's all be political salt. And, let's pray for voter integrity.

Friendship Voting

A couple of posts ago in "Differences" I alluded to the possibility that friendship could influence voters. This isn't a breakthrough revelation. Few would argue that the friendlier-appearing politician gains a significant voter advantage. Their political views may in reality stand against the voter's ideals, however the candidate's friendliness proves to be the stronger determinant. This is especially important when voters are unsure of where candidates stand on the issues (whether through neglect in the voter's research or through the unclear messages sent by the candidates themselves). In a busy, confused, and untrusted political world, image becomes so significant. So often candidates will wear the flannel shirt, don the hardhat, and pose with the children to show how down-to-earth and friendly they are. It is difficult as voters not to equate this appearance with being more trustworthy and honest.

I remember a couple of us having the unique opportunity to converse with one of the Secret Service agents during the 3rd Presidential Debate on the Arizona State University campus in October 2004. After some initial conversation which allowed the agent to see that we were "harmless", he volunteered how grateful so many of the agents were to work for our current President. Not only is President Bush timely and respectful to all those that support and protect him, but he also does many good things not seen by the camera. The agent politely commented that this was in sharp contrast to the previous President, who seemed to be all about image and photo ops.

I pray that we will see beyond the appearances to vote for the right candidates for good government.

Ultimate Sacrifice

Len Munsil's recent blog post on May 27, "Remembering the Fallen," highlights two stories about the ultimate sacrifice made by those fighting in the Iraq War. So many of us are far removed from the real and present danger of war. Memorial Day is one of the times to deeply consider what thousands have done for our nation. Some of us know someone that makes this sacrifice real. Others of us can only imagine. But all of us enjoy the unprecedented privileges and blessings of a nation built on the principles of liberty and justice for all -- A NATION THAT WOULD NOT EXIST IF THESE ULTIMATE SACRIFICES HAD NOT BEEN PAID.

Perhaps no one of these sacrifices can be pinpointed as of greater value than an another. But, it is the willingness of many, by God's grace, though fighting for a flawed and often stumbling nation, that propel us forward in the cause of freedom. There is a time for war and there is a time for peace. This is a time for war and war requires the ultimate sacrifice. Without the willingness to make this sacrifice, evil will prevail. Contrary to the notions of some pacifists, the role of government and its military is to stand up against evil. To fail to do so is worse than death. We honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for us, and their families with them.

More on Differences

Recently I began to alert several friends about this Political Salt blog thing I've been doing. I know that some are at odds with my political worldview, especially as I bring such an emphasis on God and Christian principles into politics. Separately, discussion of politics and religion can provoke strong emotions. Put them together and it can get explosive.

One definition of "difference" is the synonym of "dispute" -- a disagreement or argument about something important; "he had a dispute with his wife"; "there were irreconcilable differences"; "the familiar conflict between Republicans and Democrats."

I hope this blog does not produce "irreconciliable differences" with any of my friends.

By the way, if anyone wants to send me comments, responses, or even suggestions for future Political Salt discussions click into my profile box or email me at guy@politicalsalt.com.

Differences

The differences between us are both great and small. It depends on our focus. In one setting our differences may seem, well, like we are from different planets. In another setting, we may meld into a perfect bond of unity. Politics, of course, takes advantage of this strange trait of humanity. Candidates for office typically emphasize their distinctions from opponents, while emphasizing their commonalities with voters. Sometimes these portrayals are accurate, and at other times they are conveniently exaggerated or even calculated lies.

On a personal level, I have some very rewarding friendships with those whom I am miles apart regarding political views. On the other hand, I am sure there are those with whom I have in common the whole slate of political views but would have little interest in their friendship. If both of these types were candidates running for the same office (and all else being equal), how would you vote? This may sound dry, but I hope that I would vote for the one that shares the political values that I hold important, rather than vote for my friend who does not. The political difference is important.

Memorial Day

One important charge of politicians is to determine official holidays. Memorial Day was officially established in 1868 to honor all those who died in the Civil War. It continues to be recognized, hopefully, not only as a day off from work but to sincerely remember our military heroes up to this present day. It is all the more a solemn day with America at war in the Middle East. Sometimes we forget to remember amidst the BBQs and celebration of life that Memorial Day has become for so many of us. We enjoy this freedom and prosperity because they gave their lives. I'm thankful to even have the opportunity to do this blogging thing because it motivates me to look into the events and activities of our lives that we so often take for granted. I now remember my cousin Mike who gave his life in Viet Nam more than 30 years ago. I imagine many of you remember someone close that gave their life. Monday is their Memorial Day.

Making a Difference

It would be nice to know if we make a difference. I suspect that some believe that much of the activity of their lives is a diminishing ripple in a pond where the waves never reach the shore that matters. I believe in a God that notices everything. The question is not, "do we make a difference?" But rather, "what kind of difference do we make?" Are we walking according to God's ways? To be salt in politics, as with all of our lives, requires this.

Statesmen, Not Politicians

It may be our own distinction, but I have heard it among friends in praying for good government-- "we want statesmen, not politicians." The latter often refers to those who operate out of political expediency, driven by polls and hidden agendas, often deceitful or bought by special interests. The former speaks of those motivated to be true and principled in their office. The term "elder statesman" carries even more the respect that comes with proven wisdom. Ideally, as we continue to pray and bring salt into the political arena, we will have a restoration of the political office, such that there is no distinction.

Suddenly

Popcorn, whether in the pot or in the microwave, appears to do nothing until suddenly! Politics is sometimes like that. The general rule is that change is slow and gradual, even deliberately and forcefully manipulated by political powers. But, suddenly something may happen that changes everything. The unpredictable 'suddenlies' punctuate the political landscape and change public opinion, public policies, and elections overnight. Of course, the popcorn kernel was heating up, we just couldn't see it with our naked eyes... but God knows.

War and Love

I believe an important observation is made in a FrontPage magazine's May 17 interview with Major Steven Givler, "Notes of Joy and Sadness" by Jamie Glazov... illustrating a difference between war motivated by love and war motivated by hate. Why is America at war in Iraq? Is it because we "hate" the enemy?

From the interview with Major Givler...
"It had been our longest and most difficult sortie yet - we'd been supporting ground troops all night long who had been under fire, and some of them died while we were trying to help them - I was wondering what enabled us to keep it together, and to work more closely together than I would ever have thought possible. Training is certainly part of the answer, but the biggest part, I believe, is love. Our love for our nation and what it represents, our love for each other, and for the men and women we were supporting - love is the only thing that makes people willing to sacrifice for each other. I remember flying home as the sun was rising over the desert, thinking how odd it was that in the middle of a war, love was what motivated us."

"I saw the same thing over and over again. On my second deployment I was able to get into Iraq on the ground, instead of flying over it all the time, and I spent some time working with soldiers and Marines. I got stranded in Taqadam with a bunch of young Marines who'd been wounded in Falujah, received treatment, and were doing everything they could to get themselves back to their units so that their buddies would not be shorthanded. Those were great young men, and I was proud to be with them. I think people probably assume that wars are fueled by hate, but from what I've seen, love is what motivates our people."

Why are we at war in the first place? Isn't it primarily out of love of freedom and the responsibility we feel for the oppressed? What is the enemy's motivation?

Life or Death

Many denounce political speech as useless talk. But the communication of political ideas and the execution of politics in government effect cities, states, and nations. Proverbs 18:21 says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." Nations may go to war, they may establish righteous or unrighteous laws, they may honor or dishonor God, due to the words political leaders choose.

God says, "I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. So choose life in order that you may live, you and your descendants, by loving the Lord your God, by obeying His voice, and by holding fast to Him." -- Deuteronomy 31:19-20

In America, where we have a choice, it is our profound responsibility to choose political leaders who will choose life.

Lot's Wife: Pillar of Salt

Here's a curious anecdote about salt... My wife found a rabbinic answer to a question in jewish tradition regarding the dipping of bread in salt in "A Grain of Salt." Recognizing that salt enhances flavor and preserves food, it is to be used with offerings in the temple, and it is one of those small, special things that you are to provide guests for their meals. According to this rabbinic understanding, apparently Lot's wife, unlike Lot, was stingy toward guests and withheld the use of salt to discourage their stay. Thus, when Lot's wife failed to obey the command to not look back at the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, she became a pillar of salt-- a just reward (see Genesis 19:17,26). Further, consider the reference in Luke 17:32-33: "Remember Lot's wife. Whoever seeks to keep his life shall lose it, and whoever loses his life shall preserve it." Curious.

The New Generation

This evening I had the privilege of attending a special graduation ceremony. Approximately 2,500 family members and friends were in attendance at the graduation of 135 senior high home schoolers. The event was sponsored by Arizona For Home Education (AFHE). There were musical performances, video/powerpoint presentations, inspiring commencement and graduate speeches, and the traditional cap and gown ceremony. It was first class. It was also overwhelmingly apparent that there are many godly, very intelligent and gifted individuals rising up as part of this new generation. It was very encouraging to see the salt and light of the immediate future. No doubt some are destined to help shape our political future for the better as well -- political salt!

Covenant of Peace

Everybody wants peace. Many people will give or tolerate most anything to obtain it. Even give into the terrorists' demands, some say. Make concessions and compromise, anything for peace. Water down our laws, so that we tolerate all life styles. We don't want to offend anyone. The Bible, however, records a very interesting story about a man who was given a "covenant of peace" by God Himself. Why did God award this covenant of peace? Because this man stood up and executed God's "jealousy" for righteousness while everyone else remained immobilized. No compromise. No toleration. By his courageous action, this one man literally saved a nation from God's wrath. [Read Numbers, chapter 25-- the story of Phinehas.] True peace was gained by executing true justice. That is political salt!

True Covenant

More thoughts on the proposed "spiritual covenant with America" declared by the "spiritual progressives" of the "religious left" according to The Washington Times' story yesterday...

Contrast the spiritual blather of this proposed 'covenant with America' with a recent article by Francis Frangipane in which he refers to a true covenant with God: "A covenant is an altar upon which the Lord and His covenant partner give themselves fully to each other...It is an unbreakable oath which God Himself initiates and then promises to sustain, even giving a unique and enduring grace to His covenant partner. Contained within His promise is His unalterable commitment not only to fulfill His highest plan of redemption, but to also supply grace and faith to His human counterpart along the way. Together, the All-Sufficient God and a believing man accomplish the impossible through their covenant relationship."

The greatest thing we can do as a nation is to return to our existing covenant with God, not make a new 'spiritual' one up. America the Beautiful -- God shed His grace on Thee.

The Religious Left

Looking further at The Washington Times' story yesterday, "Democrats plan to inject spirituality into agenda" the subjects of the story referenced the unveiling of a "spiritual covenant with America." The chief conference organizer gave quotes such as: "We want to bring in a nonutilitarian framework that sees other human beings as embodiments of the sacred." And... "We're not taking the liberal agenda and sticking on some Bible quotes... It's a whole rethinking on how to do liberal and progressive politics in a whole different language." The story's author further noted that the group felt they needed to come up with a new term, "spiritual progressives" to define the "religious left." In other words, God's word is not good enough, they will create their own religion, religious language, and "spiritual politics." Talk about spiritual blather!

Spiritual Blather

I was alerted to an article in the Washington Times today, "Democrats plan to inject spirituality into agenda" by Julia Duin. I'm all for clear, biblical principles being applied to the political debate. In fact, that is essential. However, this "strategy" smacks of political expediency and spiritual compromise. When you combine political motives with a smorgasbord of spirituality, you have a bunch of blather. Out of this blather they may generate sound bites that feel good and sound spiritual, but don't expect any clear direction or solutions. What will evolve is an expression of government's role that is increasingly confused and further produces a welfare mentality. More on this in future posts.

Immigration #1

If an issue ever needed the wisdom of Solomon, immigration is it. We need to be informed and pray for our government. Pray against inflamed passions that so often exude name-calling and labeling, and rob us of reasoned and considerate dialog.

Read President's Bush's speech and here is another link to discussion on the immigration issue. When we consider an issue like this, it is important to separate the "sympathetic" from what is true, right and compassionate. Sympathies, though they feel good and appeal to the politically-correct mentality, can lead to dangerous short-term solutions (or no solution at all) that fail to address the deeper long-term issues of a matter. May cooler heads (but not cold hearts) prevail.

Mother's Day

The history of Mother's Day reveals that the holiday gained formal recognition during the same time period as Arizona in our quest for statehood. Finally, after it became a regular annual event throughout the nation from the late 1800s into the early 1900s, it was proclaimed by President Woodrow Wilson in 1914 as a national holiday. Mother's Day is another example of a good thing in politics. We do bless our beloved and sacrificial moms. Thank you Mom! Our moms are one of the most important reasons we pursue good government.

Rev. Crutchfield - Arizona History #4

Opening up the very first day of the Arizona Constitutional Convention on October 10, 1910 in prayer, the Reverend Seaborn Crutchfield began "As King Solomon prayed for guidance to wisely rule a great people, so we ask Thee to direct us in the adoption of a wise and just constitution." He then prayed the Lord's prayer, gave thanks, and prayed for "guidance that our hearts, hands and tongues may glorify Thy name..." Honoring God is an significant part of our foundational history as a state government.

Rev. Crutchfield - Arizona History #3

The first chaplain of the Arizona Constitutional Convention for statehood was the Reverend Seaborn Crutchfield. He opened each day of the convention with prayer-- and not your weak, boring, politically-correct sort of prayers. For example, on the second day of the convention on October 11, 1910, he prayed asking that our state be placed "among the grand galaxy of states in these United States, and that Arizona may be the brightest star in the Union." I believe we are preparing to see this rather unusual prayer fulfilled in our day!

Child Pornography

Speaking of someone who apparently is NOT a "mealymouthed" politician, read this recent speech by U.S. Attorney General Alberto Gonzales regarding child pornography. We need to hear this. We need to be informed. We need to stand shoulder to shoulder and guard our children while standing against this great wickedness spreading like a cancer among us. Pornography is not a victimless crime, but an incidious life-wrecker with a huge ripple effect.

The 9th Floor

We "want" the 9th floor of the Executive Tower. The 9th floor is the top floor of the Executive Tower of the Arizona State Capitol where the Governor's office is located. It is the place of greatest authority for the executive branch of government. We want good government to flow from this office. We want a godly governor to fill this office. We want godly executive staff and appointments in all departments that serve within the executive branch.

Pray for God's will to be done on the 9th floor in these 2006 elections.

Arizona State Capitol

We want the Arizona State Capitol, its hallways and offices, its elected and appointed officials, and all the support staff positions, to be filled by those executing good government according to godly principles in the service of the people and the land of our state. Is this too large a vision? Is the political system too far gone and fraught with greedy, power-hungry and "mealymouthed" politicians? Are there too many divisions (competing visions) for a godly, unified government to be established?

I believe that with the surge (siege) in concerted prayer and action specifically for good government in recent years, we are seeing a transformation before our eyes. The ship of state is turning. God is able.

Mealy-Mouthed

If you enter into your Google search bar "define: mealy-mouthed" you will receive the following definition:

"Mealymouthed: hesitant to state facts or opinions simply and directly as from e.g. timidity or hypocrisy; "a mealymouthed politician."

Politics and the Bible

I am becoming more and more amazed at how duped so many of us have been to think that Christians should stay away from politics. Politics matter. The laws and standards that flow from political work profoundly effect people - all of us. The Bible is full of encounters involving rulers, kings, governors, and every manner of government official. Many biblical heroes were in the government, or moved into governmental authority out of obscurity, or directly influenced those in government, because God so orchestrated their life. Nations were effected, were even birthed or died, because God moved through ordinary people in His extraordinary ways. Moses, Joseph, David, Esther, Nehemiah, Daniel, and many more... John the Baptist, Paul, and of course, Jesus, all changed the world. Politics matter, and the Bible has a lot to say about it.

Political Entropy

Entropy can be defined as a tendency towards disorder within a closed system. Does the Second Law of Thermodynamics apply to politics? Just a theory, but I think we can say that without something good added to our political system, the system will continue to degrade. Natural-man politics will continue to go downhill resulting in greater disorder. Thus, we need God. We need literally "good" leaders (i.e. godly leaders) to come into the otherwise 'closed system' to reverse the natural way of things and restore order for good government. Status quo politicians will not do this.

Godless Prayer?

Take God out of prayer and do we have anything left? When we try to do anything without God, it is empty or worse-- how much more does this apply to prayer. Whether spiritual endeavor or politics, without God it is nothing but the shell of man's effort. So when someone proclaims a "National Day of Prayer and Reflection" without reference (reverence) to God, it takes all the SALT out of the essential, original intent of the proclamation... sort of like trying to drive a car without an engine.

"For in Him we live and move and exist" - Acts 17:28.

Separation of Church and Prayer?

There is very clear biblical instruction to pray for our government and leaders (See pretty much all the OT prophets, as well as Matthew 6:10, 1 Timothy 2:1-8, etc.). God's will is good government here on earth.

"First of all... pray for those who are in authority" - 1 Timothy 2:1-2. "The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much" - James 5:16. If these passages are true, it is apparent that the church should be involved, not separated, from the affairs of the state. This involvement first involves prayer, and prayer accomplishes much. In other words, prayer will make a difference in government. Thus, the Church is not to be "separated" from the state, unless you are asking it to be separated from effectual prayer.

Yesterday's National Day of Prayer brought much effectual prayer to God. Better government is coming!

No Big Deal

No big deal, but today, on the National Day of Prayer, some of us were able to actually set foot and pray --bringing a blessing (Proverbs 11:11) to the Arizona Capitol-- on the floor of the House of Representatives, on the Senate floor, at the Executive Tower on the 2nd floor, and in the Governor's offices on both the 8th and 9th floors. We specifically honored God at each of these locations.

We believe the promise of Joshua 1:3, which we prayed at the beginning of our prayer walk, "Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given to you." Maybe it is a big deal. God, we honor You!

"Whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things have been created by Him and for Him" - Colossians 1:16.

To Him Be the Glory!

On the eve of the National Day of Prayer, thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, will take the time to honor the One who gives us breath, has founded our nation of liberty and justice for all, and gives us our government. We ask in prayer for good government according to the desire of Your heart, "Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven."

Honor or Despise God?

In two days, our nation will participate in the 55th annual National Day of Prayer with the theme "America, Honor God!" from 1 Samuel 2:30 -- "Those who honor Me, I will honor." If you check the Arizona National Day of Prayer website, they provide the proclamations from both the Governor of Arizona, Janet Napolitano, and the Mayor of Phoenix, Phil Gordon, for this year's NDOP. You will notice a profound and significant difference between the two proclamations.

Mayor Gordon's proclamation recognizes prayer as "a vital part of our national heritage," that "our forefathers turned to prayer as they sacrificially fought for freedom," the historic act of Congress "on April 17, 1952 establishing the national day of prayer to join together as a nation acknowledging God," and specifically states this year's NDOP theme, "America, Honor God" and the theme verse.

Governor Napolitano's proclamation begins by calling this day a "National Day of Prayer or Reflection." She then gives notice to the "diversity of faiths practiced in America," "that Americans... come together in churches, synagogues, temples, mosques and their own homes to pray or meditate for guidance, wisdom and courage," "just as we rely on prayer or reflection for courage, hope and renewal in our private lives, so too do we turn to prayer or reflection at times of joy, crisis and tragedy in our public life." The great irony in her proclamation is that there is not one mention or acknowledgement of GOD!

The NDOP theme verse, 1 Samuel 2:30, goes on to say, "and those who despise (disdain/scorn) Me will be lightly esteemed." May we, as the people of Arizona and the United States of America, out of thankful hearts, humble ourselves and truly honor God.

"Battle Cry of Freedom" - Arizona History #3

After yesterday's post, a friend sent more information on the "Battle Cry of Freedom" that was sung at the swearing in of Arizona's territorial government ceremony at Navajo Springs in 1863.

Composed in haste in a single day in response to President Abraham Lincoln's July 1862 call for 300,000 volunteers to fill the shrinking ranks of the Union Army, the song was first performed on July 24 and again on July 26 at a massive war rally. Composer-lyricist George F. Root recalled years later, "From there the song went into the army, and the testimony in regard to its use in the camp and on the march, and even on the field of battle, from soldiers and officers, up to the good President himself, made me thankful that if I could not shoulder a musket in defense of my country I could serve her in this way."

Click here - "Battle Cry of Freedom" - to listen to the tune of the song.
Click here - "Battle Cry of Freedom" - for sheet music and lyrics of the song.

[You may want to re-read my post of April 27, "Raise a Flag", which I wrote not knowing anything about the "Battle Cry of Freedom" or its lyrics... "Yes we'll rally 'round the flag..."]

The new Arizona territory was birthed during the Civil War when men cried out, fought and died for freedom from slavery.