Recently I’ve gone to two protests in Janesville. The signs that protestors carry are varied and some address Christian values and some ask “What would Jesus do?” (WWJD)
At my church, we are taught about God’s love, grace, mercy and forgiveness and that these are gifts for everyone. As Christians, we are called to be little Christs in the world. Then I look at Trump’s actions, words and policies and wonder how a Christian can support him?
His Big Beautiful Bill is going to transfer wealth from the poorest in our country to the top 1%. Is this socialism for the rich? Jesus would do the opposite. By stopping USAID to poor countries, many are dying. Jesus commanded us to take care of the poor, without exception, and he modeled this in his ministry.
Trump revels in calling groups of people and individuals names. This sews hatred and can incite violence. Any politician, judge or media person that he sees as being disloyal to him, he verbally attacks and he promises revenge and retribution. Jesus shows compassion and forgiveness towards others.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Colossians 3:12-14
Trump constantly uses degrading and racist language toward immigrants. He calls them criminals, rapists and murderers. This is simply not true. However, he has repeated this lie continually for many years and has pledged to remove those that are violent criminals from our country. However, ICE is arresting and deporting immigrants that have been in this country for years and have never committed any crime. This administration is tearing apart families and immigrants are now living in fear of even showing up for their jobs. Ask yourself, WWJD? Jesus called His followers to welcome the stranger and care for the marginalized. This tells us that our treatment of others is a reflection of our faith in Christ. All of us need to advocate for the just treatment of immigrants and balance national laws with Christ-like compassion. The Trump administration does the polar opposite of this.
How can anyone who is a Christian support Donald Trump and his administration?