Bishop Sumner has been hosting a clergy book study on Mortal Goods: Reimagining Christian Political Duty by Ephraim Radner. He specifically chose this book because it’s an election year. I saw this as a great opportunity to engage with Bishop Sumner and other clergy and to think about this topic, especially when politics are on everyone’s mind.
When the book arrived, I was happy that the premise centered on the author writing a letter to his adult children about faith and living well. However, as I started reading, I was disheartened to find Radner generally dismissive of political engagement. From what I read, he discouraged participation in politics as he felt it rarely led to meaningful results. Conversely, I believe that God and politics are often intertwined and therefore must be addressed whether we like it or not.
As I kept reading, Radner’s perspective started to make sense. As the book progresses, he encourages readers, as well as his children, to focus on those things that are within their control. As we continue in our collective study there may be more to share, but for now, here are a few of my thoughts.
We need to engage, vote, and communicate with others. It’s important to maintain civil discourse and seek to learn from each other, not isolate or alienate. Our voices matter, and our freedom to express them is valuable. We have the opportunity to communicate with elected representatives, regardless of whether we voted for them. How can they represent us if they do not hear from us? Our involvement must not end at the ballot box.
Fr. Ernie conveyed a similar message in his sermon last Sunday. You can listen to it HERE. It is a call toward unity - not uniformity - in Christ. May we experience the healing power of God within the division we have felt as a country. May God watch over us as we seek to be Christ-like in the world.
Blessings,
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