For Politicians, Jesus is a Fashion Not a Faith

It saddens me that, in today's political culture, a candidate's faith is seen as a detriment to his or her service rather than an asset.  There seem to be unwritten rules that say, in order to effectively govern, you can quote the Bible, but you shouldn't read it every day.  You can hold a press conference at a church, but you shouldn't go to one regularly.  You can invoke God's name, but you shouldn't say anything about Jesus.

But that's not really faith...it's fashion.  It's showing people just enough spirituality to convince them that you're not a hell-bound hedonist, but not so much spirituality as to imply that you're a heaven-sent holy roller.  Just once...just once...I want to hear a Christian politician address his or her faith like this:

"Many politicians spend their careers saying things that you believe, instead things that they believe.  It's a great way to get elected, but it's a terrible way to govern.  So, today, I am here to tell you what I believe...with the hope that we can find common ground and move toward making a lasting difference in our country.

First of all, I personally believe that the Jesus of the Bible is the ultimate historical example of how to live, love, and lead.  He was compassionate to those who were less fortunate, loving to those who disagreed with him, and a servant to those he worked alongside.  As a candidate for United States Senate, I pledge to follow Jesus' leadership model as best I know how.  Furthermore, I challenge any person of any faith to suggest that the methods implemented by Jesus of Nazareth would not be a breath of fresh air in Washington.

I know that there are some who are concerned that Christianity will cloud my judgement and keep me from being objective.  But that assumption couldn't be further from the truth.  Bribery clouds a person's judgement.  Not belief.  Quid pro quo diminishes objectivity.  Not conviction.  When someone has faith in something that money can't buy and power can't corrupt, their thinking remains clear and their resolve remains steadfast.  My beliefs (both in God and in the Constitution) dictate my actions...not a paycheck, not a power trip, not a President.

For those who are worried that my own personal morality will negatively impact the freedom of the American people, please hear me. I proudly serve a God who gives people a choice as to whether or not they follow Him.  Far be it from me to attempt to legislate what God has designed to be optional.  In accordance with the laws of the land, I believe in the freedom of religion, all religion, providing that one person's religious beliefs don't violate another citizen's life, liberty, or pursuit of happiness.

Finally, speaking of life, I believe that life is given by God.  But I also believe that it's guaranteed by the Bill of Rights.  I promise to vote in favor of the unborn without fail, fulfilling my duty not only as a Christian, but as an American.

I look forward to your vote on November 2nd.  May America bless God and may God Bless America.  Thank you."