Tuesday; November 19

          The other day I was listening to a sermon on the life and times of Naaman when a modern-day issue struck me.  Most of us are familiar with the story – Naaman was infected with leprosy and was cleansed when he washed himself in the Jordan River.  Now, while this is an incredible story, it is something else that jumped out to me.  Before Naaman ever went to the Jordan he was told of an opportunity for help in Israel.  Naaman sent a letter to the Israel’s king seeking cure, but the king had no idea how he could help, in fact he became frightened, “When the king of Israel read the letter, he tore his clothes and said, ‘Am I God, to kill and to make alive, that this man is sending word to me to cure a man of his leprosy? But consider now, and see how he is seeking a quarrel against me.’” (II Kings 5:7).  You see, it was the prophet Elisha, not the king who had the answer to the problem.  When Elisha heard about Naaman’s request, he responded to the king, “Why have you torn your clothes? Now let him come to me, and he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel.” (II Kings 5:8).  As I read this I got to thinking about how mixed up our world can be.  How many people are seeking political answers to spiritual problems and how many people are trying to solve governmental issues through religious rationale?  Sure, there are times when religion and politics can mix, but there are many times when we try to apply a spiritual answer to political problem – or even more frustrating, we seek political solutions for matters of the soul.
          I am not a big fan of the phrase “stay in your own swim lane” – especially when it comes to developing partners in problem-solving – but let’s keep in mind where our expertise lies.  The main emphasis of politics is running the country.  The goal of Christianity is saving souls.  When we do our individual jobs to the best of our abilities, we can find a greater amount of success and satisfaction.
         Think About It!

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