The Pastor and the Faithful should not deceive themselves into thinking that they are a religious society, which has to do with certain themes; they live in the world. We still need — according to my old formulation — the Bible and the Newspaper. (Karl Barth, 1966)
I generally enjoy reading and watching the news. I like to know what is happening in our country and around the world. I believe being informed about local and national politics is not only my duty as a responsible citizen but also my duty as a follower of Christ. The call to care for the poor, the widow, the orphan, and “the least of these” is not only something I do by volunteering or donating money; it is also something I do by using my voice and vote to craft a city, county, state, and nation that cares for the poor, the widow, the orphan, and “the least of these.”
Recently, though, I have often turned off the television frustrated with the news I was hearing. More specifically, I have been frustrated with the deep partisanship of our leaders and the apparent deadlock over many important issues. As the debates become more polarized and less friendly, I am tempted to stop listening and worse, to stop participating in the conversation.
Remembering the words of Karl Barth and the ministry of Jesus (which often challenged the political realities of the day), I repent of growing cynicism and apathy.
I also remember that as a Presbyterian, I am not a lone voice. When I feel powerless in the face of a big government and powerful politicians, I remember that as a member of the Presbyterian Church, I am part of a wider voice seeking to make God’s justice a reality in the world. Did you know that the PC(USA) maintains an office in Washington, D.C., to advocate the interests of the church to the men and women who govern our nation? The Washington Office talks to our leaders about health care, energy use, trade justice, education, criminal justice, immigration, and other key issues. In many ways, the Washington Office serves as the collective voice of Presbyterians. It reminds me that I am not alone and encourages me to keep reading both the Bible and the newspaper. It reminds me that when I might feel powerless to make a change in the world, the Spirit of God is working through God’s people, collectively, to inaugurate God’s Kingdom on earth. It empowers me to add my voice to the holy chorus.
Learn more about the PC(USA) Washington Office at www.pcusa.org/washington.