Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Palin's Theology and Practice


I spoke today with some friends from the Assembly of God. They are pretty proud of Sarah Palin but somewhat embarrassed by the Pastor of her former Assembly of God Church in Wasilla, Alaska. He was way too off the wall with some of his comments for them.

They think Sarah, however, handled herself with wisdom when appearing before that church at a Master's Commission graduation where she spoke with spiritual encouragement but restraint. While noting that many young soldiers from Alaska were being sent to Iraq she suggested that the congregation pray that the plan advanced by the USA was in accord with the plan of God.

It is hard to get lay persons and clergy to show much restraint on such issues as a military conflict. Many of us are tempted to indicate that we already know God's plan and will in war and do not hesitate to let everyone else know what we "know". Governor Palin was different. She showed support for the troops while showing restraint about the plan.

I think she has been a model for us Evangelical Christians. We need to regularly admit that we do not have God's mind on political and military matters. Humility is the best medicine and she showed that spiritual fruit when speaking at her old church.

A few weeks ago I told some friends at a meeting that we ought not take sides as ministers in the political arena because we do not know God's will. A couple of them disagreed. They were pretty sure they did know His plan. Man, I wish He had called to invite me to that meeting.

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