Is asking for mercy a political statement?

It is fascinating how individuals can watch or listen to the same thing and yet have very different interpretations. I posted a video on Facebook and Instagram. If you get the chance, check it out. (I am never on Facebook, but I knew if I posted something like that, the responses would be very different, which proved true). I must say I am not shocked; however, I am saddened.

If you haven’t heard, Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, delivered the sermon at the Inaugural prayer service and directed a plea for mercy to those considered marginalized and oppressed. Many were moved by her asking the President to show mercy; others thought she was disrespectful and even mean-spirited. In conversation with some well-meaning people, the issue was one particular people group. The response warranted some to say the Bishop brought politics into the church. I found it interesting since some of those same people have no issue when it pertains to being pro-life, which, of course, is a political issue.

I am reminded of a couple of scriptures: Matthew 5:7 (Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy), I am sure most of you are familiar with the Sermon on the Mount. The next verse is found in Luke 4:15-30. A good friend of mine pointed this out to me regarding this scripture text:

‘Jesus' announcement of good news to the poor and marginalized was repeatedly understood by his hearers to have political implications. Some heard him correctly, others misunderstood the message of liberation, and yet others (religious leaders and power brokers) recognized the threat of such a message. But, all of these groups acted as though Jesus' words had political implications. And that "political" message was what ultimately got him killed.’

Here we are, as a country, having the same reaction. I ask these questions: was the Bishop being political in her remarks? Is the gospel message, the good news, laced with political rhetoric? These are great questions to consider and have an honest dialogue about. And if the outcome is ‘agree to disagree’, then so be it—no reason to disparage or look down on anyone with differing opinions or perspectives.

In another conversation with my supervisor, we discussed this issue. I asked him, ‘Am I on the right track to suggest that "personal morality" or a personal conviction should never supersede the command to love one's neighbor?’ His response was excellent, and I used it in my video. He said: ‘the high point of personal morality is the mercy and grace of Christ.’ He is right. Our witness as Christ followers to the world is showing mercy to those who aren’t like us or think like us. It’s not making sure that I am right, and you are wrong. Jesus gathered people around him who weren’t like him at all: you and me.

The Kingdom Jesus established does not need the right political party, strong political victories, strong law enforcement, constitutionally protected rights, strong military strength, or a strong economy to prosper. The Kingdom of Jesus looks like Matthew 5:3-10. It is impossible to live those distinctives on willpower or good intentions, we need the Holy Spirit to empower us in his mercy and grace.