During Jesus' ministry, some people in Israel believed that the Roman government should be overthrown. Known as Zealots, they were in some ways like many of today's liberals. They believed passionately in social justice, that people deserved a chance to live their lives without oppression. They expected Jesus to be a leader who would throw off a government that dealt cruelly and harshly with a conquered people. They expected Him to abolish poverty and suffering through the rule of an earthly kingdom. But Jesus didn't meet their expectations. We know from the Bible that He paid taxes to Rome, and lived within the laws of the ruling government. He refused to lead an insurrection against the Romans. He actually submitted to government authority in His own death. When confronted with a choice to give money to the poor rather than allow a woman to minister to Him, He chose the woman's ministry, thereby building relationship with her and His disciples.

Like many conservatives in contemporary politics, religious groups in Israel were passionate about morality. They battled issues such as prostitution, adultery, and deviance from the laws of God. They expected Jesus to join them in denouncing such behavior. But Jesus didn't meet their expectations, either. Instead of contending with people in different moral lifestyles, He actually partied with sinners. He allowed Himself to be in contact with prostitutes, drinkers, religious lawbreakers, and thieves. He developed long-lasting relationships with them. In fact, His harshest words were for those who would judge people for their sin.

So what resulted from the actions of Jesus? Changed lives. Matthew left his job as an oppressive tax collector, and followed Jesus. Mary Magdalene was set free from demonic oppression and became one of Jesus' closest followers. Zacchaeus gave back all he stole and more. A woman caught in adultery escaped death, and received freedom and forgiveness.

No political slogan or hand-held sign has ever changed someone's convictions. Protests, shouting, and political battle will only polarize people on an issue. Regardless of which side wins or loses a political struggle, people will continue to believe what they did before. If you want to change your community, your nation and your world, the most effective action you can take is to introduce people to Jesus, and to demonstrate His love and compassion to them. Through His death and resurrection, all of us can be free from the effects of sin, and enjoy unlimited and joyful relationship with God. This is where changed lives come from.

It is a good thing to participate in politics as God leads. Vote your conscience. Respectfully voice your convictions in the political arena. But don't expect the election of a politician or passage of a law to change people's minds and hearts, much less their lives. Political power and law rule only through fear of consequence, not love. Let's make our focus the same as Jesus'. People are transformed when they experience love in relationship with Him.