From Mark VanLaeys

Delavan

To the Editor:

According to multiple polls, roughly 2/3 of American adults self-identify as Christians. What would this nation be like if that block of Americans voted in complete reverence for the life and teachings of Jesus? What if we voted for candidates who emanated concern for the same things Jesus did?

Preserved throughout the millennia as few words have been, his teachings reflect radical generosity and unconditional love for all, including the homeless, refugees, the hungry, the sick, and even the imprisoned. Surely his followers should strive to perpetuate the same? It is indeed an imperfect endeavor with associated risks and sacrifices, but so are the alternatives.

Minimum wage earners, the unemployed and the chronically disabled do not bring in adequate funds to pay for housing, medical care and food. The costs of each of these are going up while public assistance is going down.

Can anyone who has ever read Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount” think his followers should vote for candidates who prioritize tax breaks for the thriving, at the expense of those struggling to survive?

Jesus would have been quick to denounce unchallenged loyalty to political factions, long-held beliefs, or even to an administration who trades thousands of lives, including our bravest, for cheaper oil.

The enduring words of Christ are clearly in sync with striving for leaders who prioritize better care for the down and out and compassion for all! As Jesus most famously said — “as you have done unto the least of these, you have done unto me.”

Christ considered each one of us to be children of God, though he clearly denounced the hypocrites saying — “Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and then not do what I say?” (Luke 6;46)