Riverwood and Politics
“God is an American…” is the repetitious and haunting phrase that ends David Bowie's 1997 release I’m Afraid of Americans. What Bowie meant by his expressed fear of Americans is stated, what is less obvious is his meaning behind the fade that “God is an American.” Some speculate that since the song is anti-American it is also anti-God. This is probably not the case since Bowie himself said the point was to be sardonic not hostile, and the obvious subject is the deportation of Americanism – not God.
Most of the world’s Christians would bristle at the contention that God is an American… as would most Christians in America. Up until recently however, most evangelicals in America would (if only latently) hold that God, while not being American, is most likely a Republican. Or, if not a registered Republican he’s at least more favorable to their platform.
Young evangelicals as a block tend to be less tied to one party than were/are their predecessors. This has many reasons not the least of which is the growing belief that evangelicals have overly aligned themselves.
In this sense Riverwood encourages Christians to participate in the political process. However, as a church we will remain unaffiliated. Several years ago, as an election drew close, someone asked us “When is the pastor going to tell us who to vote for?” The answer was obvious – “Never.” The questioner was not seeking advice on who to vote for as much as advocating that the church endorse a candidate. This we do not do.
If you read our other Stands on Issues you will find that we hold definitive positions on certain issues. This does not however translate into advocacy for candidates or a party.
They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness. Psalm 145:7
