Jackson: How to engage in politics without losing our soul 

I just finished running for the Arizona House of Representatives (Gilbert). I have not run for a political office before; it was both challenging and rewarding. I learned a lot.

My thoughts here are based on Jesus’ question in Mark 8:36, “What good is it for a person to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his or her soul?” Over the years, I have watched many people become active in politics and actually “lose their souls.” That is, they lose their integrity and reputation in their pursuit of gaining or maintaining political power.

Don’t misunderstand me, I believe there is a true fight going on for the future of Arizona and our nation. I do believe that elections have major consequences, and we should be politically active. But it is crucial that we engage in the social and political battle in a way that demonstrates the values we say we are fighting for. In my view, how we engage in politics is as important as our policies. Remember, we reap what we sow.

Here are a few thoughts from my Christian perspective:

First, we must not equate the kingdom of God with any human political party. This does not mean we cannot be partisan, but we must maintain a mature difference between God’s kingdom and the kingdoms of this world.

Second, we must be careful not to elevate a politician to messianic status. People often falsely think a politician can single-handedly solve every problem of fallen humanity; they can’t.

Thirdly, we need to pray for our political leaders, for the political world is full of spiritual conflict and politicians truly need God’s grace and strength in representing us.

Lastly, we must remind ourselves that our ultimate security is in God. We too often elevate the outcome of elections to an apocalyptic status. Again, I know that the outcome of elections can have major and destructive consequences for individuals and their families, but let’s not think and act as if the world is going end. Remember, God is still sovereign and in control.

Many of us are presently engaged in the political drama and whirlwind of the upcoming political elections. Let’s fight for America, but let’s be careful that we do not “lose our soul.”

Andrew Jackson served 22 years as a senior pastoral-leader in two large churches, including Word of Grace Church in Mesa.  He finished third of five candidates for a Republican Party nomination for a House of Representatives seat from Legislative District 14.