Activism Uncovered

I have become increasingly disenchanted with activist movements, particularly in the Christian circles. Activism has come to bother me because in many movements, what a group of people are against becomes more important than what the group is for. Think about some movements you know... there was the Tea Party movement who lobbied against gross spending among other things. There was the Obama campaign that was activism at its best, lobbying for change in its most vague. Immigration reform, income tax reform, human rights, gay rights, hunger, homelessness, veterans rights, women's rights, NAACP, NRA, PETA... just to name a few.

You must know that it is not my opinion that humans have no rights, that women shouldn't vote, and that animals deserve less than modest living. However, when it is done in the name of Jesus the activist, as opposed to Jesus the Son of God, there is a problem. Jesus was not an activist, he was God. Jesus welcomed all, but was also very exclusive. The inclusive nature of the Church today, in the name of Jesus the Activist is not consistent with the Bible or Historical Tradition. However, Christ does welcome all and his grace is free but not without a cost.

Giving to others done in the name of Jesus is great, but shut up about it already! Give to others because God has given to you and leave that between you and God and maybe your family. Thank God for the opportunity to work for justice, but let it go and know that it is for God that we do our work. For God's sake, stop bemoaning the fact that we live in the richest nation in the world and that we have it so good and start thanking God for placing you in a situation of invaluable resources. Feed the poor, tend the sick, and love your neighbor where ever you may be. Pray for your neighbor, Christian, Muslim or Jew.

Jesus was not an activist. Our work is not part of a campaign. Jesus was God and our work is an expression of faith and love. Work for human rights in your own household, in the name of Jesus the Son of God.