Since Florida Rep. Katherine Harris was already trailing by a healthy margin in polls to Sen. Bill Nelson, the ruckus caused by her remarks to the Florida Baptist Witness
may not prove that damaging to her political future.For those who missed the news, Harris sparked a stir with her responses to an open forum in the Christian newspaper. Among other things, she suggested the concept of church-state separation is a lie, that failing to elect Christians to public office will lead to secular laws and that the faithful "need to take back this country."
Granted, Harris said a lot more. But when secular media reprinted her remarks about the above issues it touched off a firestorm of criticism from politicians in both parties, including a primary opponent who is a pastor's son.
The controversy prompted Harris to issue a clarification that she is open to people of all faiths. The statement included a quote from her campaign manager, who is Jewish.
I don't wish to pile on Harris for her remarks, yet this situation is an apt reminder of several modern-day realities:
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Never speak thinking you are only talking to people of like-minded faith.Harris' follow-up statement said she was speaking to a Christian audience and addressing a common misconception that people of faith should not be involved in government.
However, a public figures should be aware that in today's highly interactive and connected world, their statements may either be recorded or repeated via Internet blogs, cell phones and 24-7 cable news channels.
I'm reminded of the Kentucky pastor who ran for school board after that body halted campus visits by members of his staff. When a controversy erupted over an intemperate remark in one of his sermons, he said he was speaking only to his church, even though his message was broadcast on radio.
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Never assume your political views are the "Christian" version.While I believe Harris was sincere, when I first read this story, I couldn't help remembering that one of the first books I reviewed as a freelance writer was by Nelson, her Democratic opponent in November.
An observer on the Shuttle mission prior to the Challenger disaster, the then-congressman wrote eloquently about his travels into space and how they reinforced his faith.
Sometimes we need a reminder that Christians embrace a multitude of views on various issues. To assume yours is the correct, or only biblically-grounded, one is presumptuous.
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Political involvement is a double-edged sword with sometimes-unintended consequences.I don't quarrel with the idea that Christians should participate in politics, just as they should be involved in business, sports, academics, publishing and every other ethical endeavor.
Still, for the church as a whole to get too closely identified with government or looking to a political party to create utopia runs the risk of people relying on something other than God.
A pastor I interviewed recently about this issue said an excessive focus on politics can create a dependence on government help: "We end up with people who do not believe God as such but expect someone politically to come in and help. We want the faith of believers to be in the Bible and in the power of God."
Wise words as we approach Election Day.
