By CHUCK GRIFFITH
Religion Columnist

Politics are providing the headline news this week so let me offer one more article with a political flavor.
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I hardly ever feel good about politicians full of promises but I always have a special respect for statesmen with moral convictions.

Maybe that is God’s attitude also. Proverbs 12:22 says “The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.”

Stereotypical politicians have always been characterized as lacking credibility. John Kennedy said "My brother Bob doesn't want to be in government -- he promised Dad he'd go straight."

Remember the old joke that illustrates this view: While traveling in cannibal country, a man came across a cafeteria deep in the jungle. A sign on the roof advertised the cost of each entree. There was fried missionary for $3, boiled hunter for $4, sautéed safari guide for $5, and baked and stuffed politician for $25. The fellow asked why the politician cost so much more than the other dishes.

“Ever try to clean one of those things?” replied the chef.

Politics dominated by politicians have made cynics of many. One man when told that his son, a college freshman, had changed his major from theater arts to political science, said: “That’s not a change in major. It’s just a shift in emphasis.”
In a Hollywood fund-raiser this past weekend, Bill Clinton compared politicians to actors. I guess in his mind he never told lies he was just an actor quoting lines.
It would be good for all of us if we ask ourselves a couple of questions before we vote. Questions like “Does the individual I am voting for offer heartfelt convictions or just campaign rhetoric?’ And if this individual claims to have convictions, “What are their convictions and what are the basis for their convictions?”

Politics can make good fodder for humor but it is not funny when you think of what an unethical politician can do in a position of power. Do any recent illustrations of this come to mind? (Hint: does the word “impeach” ring a bell?)

We should take serious our responsibility to cast our vote for those individuals who share our core values and convictions. Someone said “Election Day and Christmas Day have a lot in common. Both days are traditional. Both days are highly emotional. And on both days, if you are not careful, you can end up with fruitcakes that last for years.”

Chuck Griffith is pastor of Fayette Assembly of God, 1144 Ga. Highway 92 South in Fayetteville, 770-719-0322.

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