fra prestens skrivebord - June 2003
by pastor Jens Arne Dale

At its annual assembly on May 1-3, 2003, the Minneapolis Area Synod of 
the ELCA approved a resolution which addresses this year’s budget crisis.

It says:
RESOLVED, that the Minneapolis Area Synod in assembly direct leaders and 
members within the Synod to prayerfully consider the proper role of 
government within the social order; and be it further

RESOLVED, that the Bishop and the Synod Council of the Minneapolis Area 
Synod be instructed to make public statements during the 2003 
legislative session affirming the ELCA’s commitment to shield the needy 
from harm through fair and balanced service delivery and revenue systems 
that allow for a more fair and equal distribution of resources, 
including a 10 percent income tax surcharge as a means to raise 
revenues; and be it further

RESOLVED, that congregations of the Minneapolis Area Synod be encouraged 
to build members capacity to speak for those without voice by contacting 
their legislative and executive representatives within the government, 
as well as the media, with a message of compassion, equal distribution 
of “pain” during difficult times, and responsibility of those who have 
benefited most from tax cuts in recent years.

I am proud to be a member of a church which takes its social commitment 
seriously in such a way. Faith is active in love, and love calls for 
justice in relationships and structures of society...That’s what we 
learned from the OT’s prophets, and the apostle who said:
Let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. 1 John 3:18

However, it may also be appropriate to ask: Where does the borderline 
between theology and politics go? The church has an obligation to preach 
the word of God, but not to get into politics. There are too many 
unfortunate examples of what happens when the two are mixed. As 
Christians, we may belong to different parties. In a democracy we all 
are allowed to speak out. And we should take Paul’s words into 
consideration, Let every person be subject to the
governing authorities. Romans 13:1