Morning thoughts from Pastor Tim

There is so much talk about pastors endorsing a candidate from the pulpit.
It’s almost an automatic nail in the tax-exempt coffin for the ministry.
I’m personally wondering what the big deal is all about.
Frankly I don’t see how I can speak for all of my people no more than the boss of a huge company can speak for all of his.
If just one person decides to vote for the other person then I can’t honestly say my church or company endorses my candidate.
That’s what freedom of choice is all about.
I can tell you what I would personally do but does it make a difference where.
Can I stand in the pulpit and say, “I’m personally voting for Mr. X”?
What if I step out of the pulpit?
Can I share my opinion and choice at the back door?
Because I’m a pastor what happens if I drive up to the church with a “Mr. Y in 08” bumper sticker?
Aren’t I still endorsing a candidate?
What happens on Election Day when everyone places his or her election signs in the ditch of my church, it being the local polling place.
Does that mean we can get in trouble with the IRS because it looks as if the church is endorsing those candidates.
I’m a pastor so what happens when I tell someone on the street that I’m voting for my guy?
Is my church still in danger of losing tax-exemption?
Where is the line drawn?
I’ll tell you where I draw the line; neither John McCain nor Barack Obama can change what really needs to be changed and that’s the sinful human condition.
There’s only One that can do that.
Preaching about politicians will not make someone run forward declaring a need for salvation.
Only preaching about Jesus can do that.
This is why the Bible tells us to “Preach the word!” 2 Tim 4:2
As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the LORD is proven; Ps 18:30
I will vote, I will make my choice, but from the pulpit I will always endorse Jesus.