Political Pragmatism as Religion

There has been a lot of speculation on the web about Obama's religious beliefs. I think they can best be described as political pragmatism. If Obama claimed Islam, his chances of being elected would sink dramatically. I know this is just speculation -- but I think with a little thought, anyone in this country would agree. Claiming Christianity is certainly the better choice for a politician. Most of the voters at least claim Christianity as their religious preference.

Let me ask you -- if you had NO religious beliefs, what would be the personal compunction regarding claims to a religion that you did not truly believe? Pragmatism would dictate claiming that which would garner the most votes. Only God can judge a man's heart, but I think that there are many indicators that Mr. Obama claims Christianity merely for the name in the hope that it will appeal to Christian voters. If Muslims outnumbered Christians I suspect that his claims would be something different entirely. Do I know his heart? No. Does he know his own heart? Perhaps -- or, perhaps not. One day he will be judged just like the rest of us.

Dr. Dobson's Views

James Dobson is pro-family. There is no doubt. His message arises from his strong belief in the message of the Bible. He is also know as being outspoken about his beliefs. I respect that. I agree with Dr. Dobson in his views and recent statements about Obama. I also agree with him in what I have heard him say about Mr. McCain. I don't agree with him on a key issue however. He seems to have indicated that he would prefer to stay home and not vote rather than to vote for either of the candidates for the Presidency. Not voting is surrender. It is saying that you have given up. Would it not be better to provide a qualified endorsement of the candidate who best fits your values? I certainly agree that the idea of "the lesser of two evils is still evil" but I don't believe that is an accurate assessment of the situation. There is the danger for Evangelical Christians to fall into the trap of being Pharisaical about the issues. God can work with anyone and anything -- shouldn't we find a way to do the same?