In the midst of all the discussion of party platforms in this election cycle, I thought it would be good to reflect on the platform which guided Jesus as He “campaigned” and which He encouraged His followers to adopt. We call it “The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:3-12):
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Modern political platforms are noticeably different, aren’t they? The reason for that is because modern politicians in our country could never be elected by pushing these points. But that says more about us as a country than it does about Jesus’ platform. Modern politicians and platforms are designed to appeal to the party base and, hopefully, to attract other voters. They make grand promises that are often easily ignored once the winner takes office. Maybe I’m jaded, but that seems to be the way the system works (or doesn’t work, depending on your perspective).
The platform of Jesus provides a remarkable contrast. Instead of focusing on things that appeal to me, it challenges me to be who I should be. And if you and I are guided by Jesus’ principles, then many of the moral and social issues that fill today’s political platforms become yesterday’s news. I think I will vote for Jesus!
God loves you!
Mike
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