Christspeak, Rx

It's been blissful, my staying away from politics. Today's post is somewhat political, more important, it is about Christspeak... my term for the language of Christianity. The other day John Edwards said, "I think that Jesus would be disappointed in our ignoring the plight of those around us who are suffering and our focus on our own selfish short-term needs," Edwards told the site. "I think he would be appalled, actually."

Jesus actually did call on His followers to consider the poor. Yet, Edwards' statement was shallow and so embarrassingly hypocritical it seems more like something Steve Carrell's character in The Office would say. (Edwards just built a mansion and owns an impressive home at Figure Eight.) It would be wise for Edwards, (and each of us), to ask Jesus how he can best serve God's kingdom, and to politically lead this country by walking the talk.

But more important, Edwards statement is theologically incorrect. In fairness to Edwards, he is not alone. Jesus is not dead. Alot of folks are inspired to do good by first considering, "what would Jesus do." We acually know quite a bit about what Jesus said and did, (though not nearly enough). However, a statement that inludes the phrase, "Jesus would," presupposes Jesus is either dead or unable to know us and communicate His will to us. In truth, Jesus is physically alive and actually initiates communication with people.

Here's some key points to consider:

• Jesus suffered and died for our rebellions and sins, in our place.
• Jesus Christ was physically resurrected and currently sits at the right hand of God the Father
• Jesus acts as our High Priest, providing His believers direct access to God through prayer.
• Jesus sent the Helper, the Holy Spirit to live within us and guide us.