Polling booths, donkeys, elephants and ministry... oh my!

Was reading a youth pastor's blog, and came across some commentary aimed at the current political climate. A comment from another minister made a passing reference to discussing such issues as the fact that the "right candidate" was crystal clear.

Okay.

My thoughts on this might not be the most popular. I am of the opinion that youth work and politics outside the most general of concepts just don't mix.

If I may be so forward (and potentially burn bridges while doing so), I was dismayed by the amount of influence the church attempted to exert in the last major political decision. I humbly believe that our Model could have done the same in his time -- but chose not to.

Back to youth ministry... political leanings should be left to parents. There is never enough time to discuss daily issues that are right in-front of our eyes. Why split that time with issues outside our realm of focus?

Recent news about the failings of prominent politicians brings such discussions to the forefront. Kids today are also way more in tune with current affairs than we seemed to be. Even more interestingly, they seem to care more. Still, I think it is important to set boundaries when needed.

When I was on staff at a christian school years ago, one of my kids had the most interesting views, views which he never hesitated to share. They were not crazy or extreme; I marveled at how defined his political and philosophical leanings were at his age. When I met his dad, it became quite clear as to who his influences were.

We (hopefully) have a lot of influence with the people we work with. Hopefully, what we try to impart is repeated to friends and family. When my young people are discussing our time together and what we discussed, do I really want discourse on tax breaks and international detente to litter the landscape?

A healthy respect for the political process is good. In fact, I'd say it should be expected. The specifics, however, may be best left outside youth ministry-related discussions.