Opus 2013-318: On the Street: The Theology of Party Sameness

The conversation recently at the tire store covered a lot of ground.  One topic was the two political parties.  We often hear that they are the same.  They really are not and yet it often seems that way.  I tell people they are the same in the sense that a dog and cat are the same.  Both animals have four legs and a tail.  Both are carnivores and predators.  At the same time, one is nocturnal and the other enjoys the sunlight.  One is a pack animal and one is a loner.  They are not the same

The political party’s are similar in some areas.  In fact they are the same in many areas.  One common trait is that many in both parties ignore their party platforms.  Corruption is rampant is both.  Elitism does not know a party name.  Arrogance flows downhill from all high spots.

This is true even though their platforms are not the same.  They have different philosophies.  One believes in government answers, the other believes people should make their own mistakes. 

What causes the similarities?  They both have people and human nature is the same.  Followers of Christ are familiar with the concepts of original sin and depravity.  Nonbelievers might talk about broken people caused by social inequality.  Either way these faulty personalities strike across party lines.   Republican, Democrat, Libertarian, Green, all parties frequently violate moral standards because they have people with the same flaws, not because they are not different.

To put it simply,

(Romans 3:23 KJV)  For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Corruption, graft, cronyism, arrogance and coercion can be reduced by citizens paying attention and getting involved but they will never go away totally in this life.  The government has “shut down,” except for all the pet projects of the powerful.  Health care is in turmoil, but I bet a Senator can still get an immediate appointment. 

Meanwhile the sun is coming up, the corn is being harvested and the drive to work should be easier if you still have a job.

homo unius libri