Civility in Politics?

             Mark DeMoss, a prominent evangelical Christian who runs a public relations firm in Atlanta, is dropping his effort to get elected officials to sign a rudimentary “Civility Pledge.”  He and a friend, alarmed at the escalating incivility among politicians developed a simple pledge which says, “I will be civil in my public discourse and behavior.  I will be respectful of others whether or not I agree with them.  I will stand against incivility when I see it.”

            They sent out 585 letters asking every sitting governor and member of Congress to sign the pledge.  Mr. DeMoss said in an interview that he is now folding the project after spending two years and about $30,000 in expenses on the endeavor. Only three legislators had signed the pledge.  You read right, ONLY THREE members of congress and no governors would sign the pledge.  In fact, he reports receiving some very hostile emails using unbelievable language and some words he will not repeat publically.

            Most, if not all, of these elected officials are people of faith, a majority of which are Christian by profession.  You would think they would readily sign such a pledge.  Jesus said, “love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)  With some politicians the rule seems to be, “hate your enemies, curse those who disagree with you and spitefully assassinate their character.”  It can be debated as to whether current incivility in politics is greater than it was in the past, but whether it is or not, it is too great now. Some political pundits ranting in the media today will one day face the Lord to give an account of their incivility.  I’m glad I won’t be among them.

Grace and peace.