My Personal Faith Priorities

In keeping in the recent "tradition" (is it a tradition if at least two people have done it?) of writing and posting a list of faith priorities, I'd like to share my own as well. Because the kingdom of God is not on the ballot, I've complied this list (that will likely read similar to those of Jim Wallis and Eugene "the Man" Cho) and decided to share it with you. I encourage everyone to put together their own list. You're welcome to agree and disagree with me in the comments, but I would remind that these are not the "non-negotiables" put out by some types but my own conclusions.

1. Consistent Ethic of Life.  I believe abortion is wrong. I also believe that God cares about us "from womb to tomb" and that we've failed to defend the least of these, whether they are unborn or born. Studies have shown recently that poverty directly affects abortion, and issues such as the death penalty, euthanasia and war all devalue humans in the same way abortion does. I have made a point to look at the records and policies of all of the candidates for office that are on my ballot to identify those who will best lift up and defend the entire quilt of life issues.

2. God's Creation. The Scriptures are clear about God's creation, and we have failed to honor God in our treatment of it. I will support the candidates that best value and work to restore our respect for it.

3. Human Dignity. We're all made in the image of God and issues such as human trafficking are an assault upon that. Economic slavery and torture are also forms of assault on this and I will support the candidates that work ot lift up human dignity, be it in a reversal of American policies on torture, a new approach to immigration, or ending global trafficking.

4. Family Values. Perhaps this term has certain conotations based on other uses, but I support the candidates who argue for sexual integrity, marital fidelity, and extremely important, family values over economic progress. The candidates most-willing to lift up the family in prose and policy will be the candidates I support tomorrow.

5. Economic Justice. The consumerism and greed in our society is unbiblical. Regardless of the economic and political systems in which we live and work, the candidates who place value on safety in the workplace and job security, as well as prosecuting corporate greed, are definitely supporting family values and will also earn support from me.

As you'll note, these issues are broad and wide-reaching, and the chances are good that no candidate falls into agreement with all of these issues. Because of that, it has taken some serious discernment and contemplation to determine who to vote for in each race that I can vote on.

The reality is that no salvation comes through the political system and that these issues don't come to an end on November 5. We must work to see these issues come to fruition, either alongside or despite those in political leadership in this country. And prayerfully hope for the Spirit to move in such a way that all can see Christ's holiness and worship Him.