Cheney vs. Jesus
"These are evil people. And we're not going to win this fight by turning the other cheek," [Cheney] said.
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"You have heard that it was said, 'Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.' But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well. If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you.
"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
I know that governing is hard, and there are some really difficult decisions to be made, but following Jesus is not about doing it when it's easy or feels good, it's about doing it when it's hard and you struggle and hate it. Because that's when it matters. That is when you are being obedient. That is when you are glorifying God. That is when your character is changing. That is when you are walking with Jesus not just speaking platitudes. Jesus has been there. That was what going to the cross was all about. It was an act of obedience taking precedence over his personal desires - for the greater good - when it seemed stupid.
I am a little rattled at all the Christians who have bought into the mindset of the previous administration and rejected the current one. You may not like his approach to governing but to suggest that Obama is not doing a Godly job of leading us and the previous administration was is not very well substantiated by quotes like this one.
I think the question for today can be credited to Cheney, who makes us ask ourselves, "What is the fight we are trying to win?"
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