Yesterday someone asked me if I would be taking my
“religious beliefs” to Columbia with me if I am elected (the tone of his
question was sarcastic). My response was, “You’re darn right I will.”
I went on to explain that I can no more separate myself from
my religious beliefs than I can from my skin color or height. My faith in Jesus
Christ is not my grandparents’ religion or a collection of stories. It is what
forms my worldview and governs my decisions; it is the needle on my moral
compass and the most important determining factor in my life.
Some may scoff at this, or invoke the separation of church
and state, but I would point out a few things. First, having convictions is a
good thing. People are sick of politicians who move whichever way the winds
blow. I will never do that because my beliefs won’t change. I’m not running to
build a political career and do what is necessary to stay in office. I’m
running to make a difference and do what I think is right.
Second, my convictions make me a better person. My theology
says to love my neighbor as myself, to pray for my enemies, to do good to those
who curse me—why would anyone want me to leave that home when I go to Columbia?
Finally, I would point out that the “leave your faith at
home” mindset only applies to Christians. Atheism is a belief system, but
secularists never say, “I hope you leave your atheism at home.” In fact, I
would submit that atheism in the workplace and in government is what has led to
the moral decline in this country. If anything, we need more people to take
their Christian convictions into government.
I don’t want to be a congressman who happens to be a
Christian. I want to be a Christian who happens to be a congressman. This is
who I am. I would love your vote, but I won’t compromise to get it.
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