Let your way of thinking be changed. Then you will be able to test what God wants for you.
[Adapted from Joelle Wight, “Hospitality as a Political Act,” 2024, in Project Zion podcast]
Rather than being driven by partisan loyalty or nationalistic interests, disciples are called to seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8).
Faithful political engagement requires a posture of discernment, recognizing that no political party or ideology fully embodies the kingdom of God. This means:
- Prioritizing Justice—Policies and leaders should be evaluated based on their impact on the marginalized, not just personal benefits. The gospel consistently lifts up the poor, the oppressed, and the outsider.
- Rejecting Fear-Based Politics—Many political movements rely on fear, division, and scapegoating. Faithful discipleship resists these tactics, choosing love, hope, and reconciliation instead.
- Being Prophetic, Not Partisan—The role of the church is to challenge injustice wherever it appears, not to align itself uncritically with any political party or movement. Biblical prophets spoke truth to power, even when it was uncomfortable or unpopular.
- Engaging in Action, Not Just Words—Faithful discipleship involves more than just voting. It includes advocacy, community organizing, mutual aid, and direct service to those in need.
A key challenge is balancing realism with faithfulness. Political systems are often flawed, yet disciples must engage them to pursue justice. While complete alignment with God’s kingdom is impossible within any earthly government, disengagement is not an option. Instead, disciples are called to be a faithful presence—working within imperfect systems while maintaining a prophetic witness.
This means resisting the temptation to seek power for its own sake. Jesus rejected political dominance, even when offered the chance to rule. Instead, he demonstrated a different kind of power: the power of sacrificial love, humility, and radical inclusion.
In practical terms, faithful political engagement may involve
- Voting with justice in mind
- Supporting policies that align with kingdom values
- Holding leaders accountable
- Practicing civic hospitality—welcoming refugees, advocating for the poor, and promoting peace
Ultimately, disciples are not called to build their own kingdoms but to witness to God’s reign. This means engaging in politics, not as a means of self-preservation, but as an act of faithfulness, love, and justice.
Prayer Phrase
“Love does no wrong to a neighbor…” (Romans 13:10).
Spiritual Practice
Prayer
Pray for emergency services. “Rescuer, provide emergency services and support for refugees in crisis. Help them to receive the assistance they need.”
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.