Christian [r]epublicanism

 A little "r" republican subscribes to the "... theory of government in which the supreme power rests in the body of citizens entitled to vote and exercised by representatives they elect directly or indirectly... and it is also closely connected to the idea of civic virtue, the responsibility citizens owe to their republic..." 

The big "R" Republican Party subscribes to the first part, but fails in the second part when talking about citizens taking responsibility for their republic.

Republicans seemingly are against welfare benefits to its citizens, being against abortion and hostile toward the homosexual community.  First, let me be clear.  I am pro-life.  I believe life begins at conception.    Second, I am saddened by the number of welfare recipients in this nation.  Third, we are all God's children.

However, as a Christian, if I am pro-life in the womb, I must also pro-life after delivery.  If we are counseling women to deliver their babies, then we must "man-up" and face the reality that these babies need shelter and food - for life.  In other words, as a Christian nation, we cannot turn our backs on these children that we fought for in the first place.  Moreover, if I am to help these children and the poor, I also must allow some of my taxes to help feed them.

In today's political world, Democrats and Republicans fight over the government's role in supporting these children.  Democrats will argue that it is government's responsibility so they continue to expand the government.  The perception is that the Democrats are trying to help.  By voting to cut food stamps, the Republicans are perceived to be the party that turns their back on the poor.  In some respects, I agree with that perception. 

Republicans can win this battle of perception if they begin by ...  

1.     Going into the poor communities, extending an olive branch and spreading Jesus and Love
2.     Be willing to accept paying more taxes if you want to say that you protect life
3.     Assisting people in finding jobs to get them off of welfare
4.     Helping them sign up for Obamacare
5.     Teaching them the virtue of self-esteem and dependence on one self rather than the government
6.     Educating them on life skills, such as keeping a checkbook and paying bills

Let's be honest.  The federal government has assumed the role of the Christian [r]epublican.  The supreme power is the government.  However, as Christian [r]epublicans, we need to take the power back.

Christian [r]epublicans, it is time to stop arguing and fighting this battle publically.  If you are truly a Christian and are truly a [r]epublican, then start by taking care of those in your midst - privately.  You can do this and stand your ground on your principles.  Over time, government will shrink because government will have fewer people in need of assistance.  It takes time, I know.  Until then, starting spreading the Love.  In the end, we all win. 

I'm not sure if I am a big "R" Republican anymore.  I'm not sure what they collectively stand for in 2013.  Maybe I am really a Democrat because I want to serve others.  I don't know. What I do know is that the message of Christian [r]epublicanism must be championed.  We need to take this message to the streets.  And this message, transcends political parties.