I want to be an informed voter but it is increasingly difficult for me to stomach the derisive, hostile and often mocking tone of many recent political speeches (never mind the all mudslinging ads or insane punditry out there these days). Reading the transcripts afterward helps a little bit, but it can be difficult to sort out truth from fiction, innuendo from issues.
If there’s a silver lining to all of this, I suppose today’s political climate reminds those of us who follow Christ that our ultimate hope is not in a particular politician or the political process. Tony Campolo says this in the latest issue of Relevant:
My contention is that if anybody asks if you’re a Democrat or a Republican, the answer should be, “Please name the issue.” On certain issues, I’m going to come across as someone who likes what the Republicans say, and on other issues I will come across as saying what the Democrats say.
Jesus might not be on the ballot for president, but maybe He could at least run for mayor of Detroit? Lord knows, Detroit needs the help.
headsparks* 
i feel the same way! i have largely been apolitical for most of my life and even though my awareness is rising, i’m not really convinced that i have enough confidence to say i would be either democrat or republican. especially after reading shane claiborne’s book, i’m really wondering if i can’t write in Jesus for president. i’m dead serious.
This website proves helpful in trying to see through the rhetoric.
http://www.factcheck.org/
yeah, but….Jesus would be the worst president. I know that Jesus is great visionary and inspiration, but really he would not do well in compromises. I have seen that politics does take compromises to really work. Remember that one side has to lose, and if that side is big enough, you cannot ignore them. Jesus needs to talk with that other side to get them to see things in a new light and want to change their policies and desires (and hearts). Jesus in the executive seat would just get torn apart and hated and then what do you have. Jimmy carter has done better out of the presidency than in it. Al Gore too. Communication. That’s what Jesus wanted too.
BTW: Long time reader, first time poster.
David — I hear you, brother. Claiborne and Haw bring up some important, and extremely difficult, issues… makes me wish I had started to wrestle with those thoughts earlier, what with November rolling up on us so soon.
* * *
Daniel — Thanks for the link! I saw in their “about us” section one of my old professors from college!
* * *
Travis — Thanks for taking time to read and comment. The title of this post was a (lame) attempt at humor, and a reference to Shane Claiborne and Chris Haw’s book by the same title. I definitely appreciate your thoughtful insights. I agree – it is extremely unhealthy for one to either ignore those on the other side (whichever side that is) or to steamroll them in the name of religion. I can’t imagine Jesus treating anyone that way.