The Accidental Anabaptist: The Big Picture

Thursday, September 4, 2008

The Big Picture

Continuing my rant on politics and the confusion that abounds... I discussed this topic with some of my closest on-line friends.

Now, I don't know if killing while in the military is murder (breaking the commandment) or protecting the innocent. I prefer to think of it as the latter. Here is an example of a military serviceman helping escort a Jewish man to safety. He's PROTECTING him from harm.

David went to war and definately took lives, which was breaking the commandment. But he was considered a man after Gods own heart (wink-nod Janeta)...

I am still confused. But perhaps less so. Maybe the military is an extention of the police? They are the forces that protect the innocents?

From an Anabaptist perspective, I know this will not fly. I know most Anabaptists will not take a life no way, no how. At least they won't sign up and volunteer to. Many WOULD protect thier own wife and children. Killing would be the last option, but most, when pressed would not stand by and allow anyone to harm or molest their family. So is the military any different?

But from a BIBLICAL perspective, do you think it's correct? I'm not talking about patriotism, and being proud to be an American. That is a given! I am not so much partiotic, as I am humble and appreciative to have the freedom to worship how I choose. To have options...and as many children as I choose. But biblically, what is our responsibility?

How do we respond to threats as a nation, not just an individual? I understand turning the other cheek (That was a one-on-one situation)... but what about serving our country? Taking lives under military order?

Who will answer for the lives lost? Does God see the *big picture* and understand when we are trying to keep our country safe? I hope so... I truly do.

I would love to hear from you.

No comments:

Welcome To The Accidental Anabaptist

I am Kelly,... wife, to Scott, and mother to five... grandmother to six (and counting!!). We live in the great State Of Texas, and have family scattered from Connecticutt to Ohio, to Texas.

Why do I call myself *the Accidental Anabaptist*???

Because it was completely unintentional! While living in Ohio, I was befriended by a Mennonite woman. She invited me to church & opened the door to a *3rd Way* of worship.

The rest is history!

What is the primary focus of Anabaptist?:

Non-resistance, refusing to swear oaths, separate from the world, dressing modestly, & dying to self to start with.

Please see my *links* section at the bottom of the page for more information on the Anabaptists, their history, and how they live out their convictions.

My life is not simply about being Anabaptist... It's about a devotion to God, and that's the earthly label that I identify with most.

I am not *PLAIN* in the most dramatic sense, but I am simple, modest, and conservative in a practical sense. I do not dress to align with any particular church.

I have a world of genuinely plain friends who I love dearly. They have taught me to be a better person through their fellowship. They are not afraid to challenge me, and I adore them for their honesty.

I would like to be a bridge *to* the conservative Anabaptists, their doctrine, different practices, and a simpler life for everyone, for anyone who is interested.

I hope to challenge the reader to be open minded without selling out, to be less judgemental of what you don't understand, and to serve God with passion, and not lip service.

Blessings,

Kelly