Religion: Optional belief system or natural aspect of humanity?

Crossed

Dec. 17, 2016

Gary’s statement

I have always admired Buddhism as a belief system. Other than what I might term the “reincarnation fantasy,” I am on board with virtually all other characteristics of the religion. I also admire the way practitioners are comfortable in their own skins. You seldom hear of Buddhist protests or governmental involvement unless it is to protect themselves against violence and discrimination.

In the U.S., where Christianity is the predominant religious belief system, things are different. A foundational aspect of Christianity is the need to “spread the word of Christ” and inform nonbelievers they will burn in hell after they die unless they see the light. To Christians, their belief system is as fundamental to their existence as is gender and race. As a result, there is an exaggerated effort on the part of Christians to convince legislators they deserve similar political recognition and protections.

In fact, the preponderance of Christianity in America today is such that it is virtually impossible for a nontheistic candidate to be elected to Congress. We are saddled with Bible-toting candidates, many of whom are undoubtedly closet atheists, appearing in churches begging for votes. The result is that religion and its optional beliefs receive weighted advantages in a country founded upon freedom from the Church of England.

The very first Constitutional Amendment addresses religious belief, stating: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.” That’s it. That statement is clear — the U.S. government is to be completely divorced from any activity that would lead it to either condone or limit religious practice.

My wish during this holiday season is that all Americans find a way to tolerate each other and simply be free to be who they are. Promote equal treatment, not special consideration. If you don’t approve of the gay lifestyle, have heterosexual sex. If you don’t approve of abortions, don’t have one. It’s time to truly separate church and state.

Bill’s reply

Gary’s wish is “all Americans find a way to tolerate each other and simply be free to be who they are.” Sounds good. Hopefully, those who live in Christian communities can return their crèches to their town squares, and people of other faiths will be free to publically display symbols where appropriate. Perhaps even valedictorians, who want to glorify God, will be free to do so. 

If we really want to push the tolerance envelope, maybe merchants, who have concerns about gay marriage, will not be forced to participate in gay weddings. Sounds good, but I won’t get my hopes up. 

Column space won’t allow me to offer the litany of restrictions placed on Christians by various Supreme Court decisions since the 1940s. When one atheist can have religious expression banned, that seems like special consideration to me. 

As a Christian preacher, I’ve never condemned anyone to hell for not sharing my beliefs. However, I was physically escorted out of an Eagle Scout ceremony for a member of my congregation because I prayed in Jesus’ name.

Bill’s statement

“Here’s what I don’t get about religion ... why do all of these factions insist upon getting involved in politics? To me, if you are comfortable with your beliefs, you should not need to be part of the political realm at all. You know, separation of church and state and all that.” This was Gary’s question, as we prepared our column.

My response? Why are people of color, people from the LGBTQIA community, or women involved in politics? Why should race, sexual identity and gender be part of the political realm at all? You know, the great melting pot and all that. It’s in our DNA!

Gary’s question concerns power and identity. My faith defines my identity more than my gender or race. Where many see faith as a garment people can put on or take off leaving the body untouched, I see faith as part of the human fabric. To remove faith is to destroy the body.

Following Christ, I am called to make the world a better place for others, especially the poor and those who suffer. To do so, I have to be involved in the political process.

Martin Luther King Jr.’s leadership of the civil rights movement offers a good example. What moved King to be involved in the political process on behalf of civil rights was his faith. Had King been white, his role may have been different, but his passion for civil rights would have remained. His sacrifices for justice and peace … his belief all lives matter … were inspired more by his faith than his race.

King’s public expression of his faith was precisely the reason the establishment clause was written, to preserve the right of diverse religious expression in the public forum. Church and state are separate, but faith and life can never be!

Gary’s reply

The reason people of color, the LGBTQIA (that needs work!) community, and women actively engage in politics makes perfect sense to me. In virtually every facet of our society all three are discriminated against and vilified for simply being themselves.

There are countries where Christianity receives similar vile treatment, but not here. Politicians on both sides of the aisle wail and gnash their teeth at the thought of disparaging any Christian principle. Recall the political backing Kim Davis received as she ignored her oath of office, refusing to issue marriage licenses to gay applicants.

Lest anyone dispute this is a Christian-dominated nation, the Christian God is plastered all over our money, our Pledge of Allegiance, and many of our national songs.

Bill, you may see your faith as “part of the human fabric,” but no credible scientist is likely to agree. You were born a white, straight, male and later learned Christianity. Had you been born into an Islamic or Hindu family, chances are very good your God would be different, but those other features would remain.

Agree statement

Though we have different feelings about religion, we respect each other, learn from each other, and both feel our society could benefit significantly from these types of open and honest dialogues. Merry Christmas, Bill! Happy holidays, Gary!