Separation

of late, my policy on making comments or stating my opinion about my stance on government and God has been to refrain. however, i consider something as general as Separation of Church and State to be important enough to render comment.

here in Texas, there is couple (who has children in the Texas public school system) who has filed suit against various state officials for the addition and use of the phrase 'Under God' in the Texas flag pledge and the required presence of the American pledge and the moment of silence each morning in Texas schools. Texas added the 'Under God' phrase to the Texas flag pledge citing consistency with the American flag pledge being their goal.

i must say: i applaud this couple. of the Bible Belt in America, Texas may not be the buckle, but it is at least the over-grown pot-luck supper belly of it.

in the Dallas Morning News article on this very story, the Texas state solicitor general Ted Cruz is quoted defending the pledges and moment of silence as saying, "In both the nation and the state there is a long tradition of acknowledging the role of the Almighty." i realise that our justice and law system is based largely upon precedent and that tradition is considered virtually sacred; however, if the law of Separation of Church and State is to be upheld -- the State can in no way entreat her citizens to believe anything religious in nature.

the will of the majority is honored, yes; but the rights and freedoms of the minority MUST be protected.

as Christians, we are not called to force upon anyone our ways or beliefs. Christ does not force belief or obedience upon us -- therefore, we should not force. many say we are a Christian nation -- founded upon Christian values. i would say in response that Israel expected a Messiah-King that would come to earth as a conqueror to depose the Roman government's control over the Jews. when Christ came as the Messiah he came on His terms offering freedom and abundant life. He did not come on their terms. our own expectations of who Christ is to us and to the world are those of ancient Israel. we want a Christ who will conquer by being strong and forceful. but that is not who He is. victory is gained through servanthood. Christ came to serve, and this should be our mark; not domination in government or arrogant superiority in belief. oppression for ANY reason is still oppression. as Lily Tomlin said, "The problem with winning a rat race is that, in the end, you're still a rat."

i understand that Christian parents wish for positive, Godly influence upon their children. then those parents should be that influence and stop expecting or requiring our government to fill that role. government is to be public... for all who live in the country -- religious belief is personal.

to the parents fighting against this injustice: good work. i'm behind you.