Deacon Arthur C. Donart, Ph. D., SFO (ret.} wrote this essay.
I have been an ordained Roman Catholic clergyman for 40 years.Frequently I have listened to people say. “Religion has no business involving itself in politics.” If by that they mean their Pastor should not be advocating how they should vote from the pulpit, I would agree with them. Their vote should be a matter of their conscience.
However, our religion should inform our conscience. If we are Christians, we look to the Gospels to learn Jesus’s values. We support those values in our decision making every day of our lives. The Gospels tell us what Jesus said and did. So, what were Jesus’s values?
Basically, Jesus loved everyone; there was no place for hate in his heart. He was forgiving. On the cross and in extreme pain, he uttered, “Father, forgive them; they know not what they do!” Which of our Presidential candidates has a forgiving attitude toward those who oppose them?
Jesus taught us to pray, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who have trespassed against us….” Jesus knew that forgiveness is essential to living in peace. Getting even and settling scores do not bring peace. Which of the candidates best reflects Jesus’s value?
Jesus loved and respected people of different religions and races. The good Samaritan was not a Jew, nor was the woman at the well. The Roman Centurion was a foreigner and an Officer in Rome’s oppressive army. Yet, Jesus did not call them derogatory names. Rather, he listened to the woman, and he healed the Centurion’s servant. Should we not follow Jesus’s examples?
Speaking of setting an example, we might look at how Jesus treated women. He went to their homes and ate with them. In his time, that was a serious “no-no!” Also, he taught them; another no-no. The impact he had on women can be inferred from the Gospels. They point out that the only man at the foot of his cross was his “Beloved disciple” John, and the rest were his mother and other women. Which of our candidates most epitomizes Jesus’s value and respect for women?
Finally, we have only to truly understand the “Sermon on the Mount,” to realize about whom Jesus was concerned. His sermon promoted humility, caring for others, and forgiveness. As we comb the Gospels, Jesus’s concern bursts out for the poor, the hungry, the homeless, and the marginalized. Which candidate would best serve these people today?
