Politics and Religion
For many years, I watched the news as a spectator and cared little about state and world affairs. One reason was my upbringing. Our family was a sports family: football, baseball, softball, and basketball. Another reason was my dad was a Teamsters Union employee and naturally gravitated to the Democratic Party. When asked what party affiliation we were, he’d boom out “Democrats!” adding that he hated Nixon. It was the same when Jehovah’s Witnesses came to our door. “We’re Catholics!” he’d say as he slammed the door. Ironically, we went to mass once a year. Yeah, you guessed it—Easter Sunday, adorned with all the fixings: a beautiful spring dress, an Easter bonnet, and shiny white shoes to complete the outfit.
Making matters worse, I continually heard this phrase in our home: “We never discuss politics and religion.” As I grew into adulthood, I realized it was a common saying among many people. And why not? It sounds so wise and philosophical. Yet today, I look at that phrase and think how shallow it is. I know people who dodge these subjects to avoid combative discussions. Still, the downside is that, at a certain level, there will always be parts of the relationship that will go unnoticed and unchallenged. Looking back on my upbringing, I realize my dad refused to discuss politics and religion because we never participated fully in either culture.
In many ways, it’s easier to stay out of both worlds. In the church world, there are numerous churches with divisions in doctrines. To a new believer, it is overwhelming. In politics, it’s easier because there are technically only two sides to choose from in the United States, and the sides are Republican/Democrat or Conservative/Liberal. The problem is the memorable/holiday dinner table. Why start conflict if you have half your family and friends on different sides of the political and religious worlds? It’s easier to keep things light, right? Why delve into deep topics of our values and convictions if they cause defensiveness and hurt feelings?
I wrote a book called “Government and the Church- How the Church Can Participate in Government.” In my study of the bible, I perceive the two institutions working together to create a better world. I want, desire, and need to discuss both religion and government (politics). I want to understand, and I want to be understood. I believe that people can discuss these topics respectfully and sincerely. There needs to be some ground rules established before the issues are brought up. Please don’t misunderstand. I have engaged in heated debates with those closest to me, which has not always been productive, but I can learn and grow, and so can you.
Here are some suggestions when opening up these discussions:
Politics and Religion topics are not personal attacks on differing beliefs. People are sensitive to their beliefs, so asking questions and respectfully listening to their answers is a good start.
Our family and friends must understand that even though we disagree with them, we are not judging them.
Before we delve into a topic, we need to do a self-check. Are we picking a fight, wanting to correct someone their error, or just showing off our particular knowledge of an issue?
Our responses can make or break the discussion. I have had people respond to me with this statement, “You don’t believe that, do you?” And I have told people, “How can you believe that?” People are emotional with their opinions, and we don’t always get them right.
Listening to understand someone else is not easy and takes practice. Most of us aren’t listening. We are waiting to respond (I’m guilty of this all the time).
Finally, after everything has been said, end the conversation peacefully. You may have to follow up with a phone call or email. That’s okay, and your family and friends are worth it.
Pray for those you think are in error and ask God for wisdom to speak with them. The Holy Spirit will help them and us with our differing opinions.
Politics and religions are rich topics to discuss and muse over in the right setting. There are hundreds of things we can learn from each other. Things we never thought about before till we allowed others’ opinions and voices to be heard in these matters. Getting into those places of discussion deepens our relationships and appreciation for others’ experiences, education, and cultural background.
When the opportunity presents itself, open up the conversation and delve a little deeper, slowly listen more than talk, and see where your relationship can be taken. Hopefully, some pleasant surprises will open for you.