It’s Okay to Disagree, But…
Dan Kunz
As Americans, we live in one of the most politically divided times in our history. The time leading up to and including the Civil War was worse, but politics is not a good discussion starter at most diners or social gatherings today. Many people are not just on one side or the other. They’re way on one side or the other. Anyone not on your side is ignorant, bigoted, or plainly blind to the “facts”!
It is critical that we, as Christians, serve as an example to others in such trying times. That doesn’t mean that we can’t have an opinion or be able to discuss why we have that opinion. It simply means that we need to be able to keep our emotions under control and view others with respect and openness. That applies not just to politics, but our opinions about a lot of topics – climate change, gun regulation, immigration, or even the color of the new carpeting at church. When we value others as children of the Heavenly Father, blood-bought souls just as we are, it may be just a little easier to truly discuss things without anger or hard feelings. Unfortunately, society today influences us to dig in our heels, to fight to the end, to become no one’s doormat. The art of being kind, gracious, and loving enough to just walk away from an argument, seems to be a lost art indeed.
Living in a democratic republic, such as ours, is a tremendous blessing from God, but that blessing also brings certain responsibilities. Voting in local, state, and national elections is an important way to have our voices heard as Christians. Staying current on a variety of topics brings weight to our vote. Being a critical consumer of information, no matter the source, means that our opinion is an informed one. It’s tempting to think our vote doesn’t count or that the news is just too depressing or turbulent to bother with, but we have a responsibility to our country and to the next generation to work at making things work!
My dad used to say that opinions are like wristwatches – most people have one and they all believe theirs is correct. It’s a good thing to have opinions. We must make sure, however, that ours don’t become an excuse for divisiveness or distain. Jesus himself says in Matthew 5:44, “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” In this case, that includes praying for those with whom you disagree. It’s difficult to be or stay angry with someone you’ve just asked God to bless. Try it and you’ll see. Stay calm and carry on!
Contributor, Dan Kunz, Antioch Foundation