Thoughts, Prayers & Art

In the complex landscape of American society, the intersection of politics and faith is an ever-present reality. While the church has often sought to remain a beacon of love, hope, and reconciliation, it cannot ignore the ideologies that challenge the essence of its teachings. One such ideology is the “Make America Great Again” (MAGA) movement. As followers of Christ, it is essential to examine whether the principles and rhetoric of this movement align with the teachings of Jesus.

 

At the heart of Christ’s message is a radical love that breaks down barriers and unifies humanity. Jesus teaches us to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31) and to even “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). The call to love transcends social, economic, and political divisions. Jesus demonstrated a profound inclusion that extended beyond the narrow confines of societal expectations, embracing the marginalized, the foreigner, and the disenfranchised.

 

The rhetoric and actions that have emerged from the MAGA movement, however, often stand in stark contrast to this call. Rather than fostering love and reconciliation, the movement has too often cultivated division, fear, and even hatred. Under the guise of patriotism, it has perpetuated xenophobia, racism, and a posture of exclusion. Such attitudes are a far cry from the open-hearted and compassionate love that Jesus embodied. The teachings of Christ challenge us to welcome the stranger (Matthew 25:35) and to see every human being as bearing the image of God.

 

Furthermore, the ethos of MAGA seems to celebrate power, dominance, and self-interest. Jesus, however, turned the concept of power on its head. He taught that “whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all” (Mark 9:35). His kingdom was not one of political dominance but of humble service and sacrifice. In fact, Jesus’ ministry was fundamentally countercultural, resisting the pursuit of power for its own sake. He humbled himself, washed the feet of his disciples, and ultimately laid down his life for others.

 

This call to humility and self-sacrifice is a direct challenge to the MAGA movement’s emphasis on nationalistic pride and individualism. The idea that one nation, race, or group should elevate itself above all others is incompatible with the teachings of Christ, who consistently uplifted the downtrodden and placed the well-being of others above his own. As followers of Christ, we are called to embody the same humility and selflessness, working not for the aggrandizement of ourselves or our group but for the flourishing of all God’s children.

 

Another critical departure from the teachings of Jesus lies in the treatment of truth and integrity. Jesus proclaimed himself to be “the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6), and he consistently condemned deceit and hypocrisy. The proliferation of misinformation and the rejection of accountability that has accompanied the MAGA movement undermines the commitment to truthfulness that Christ demands. When leaders and followers alike embrace falsehoods to maintain political power, they stray far from the example of Jesus, who declared, “the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).

 

Moreover, Christ’s ministry emphasized care for the least among us—the poor, the sick, the vulnerable, and the oppressed. Throughout his teachings, he was clear: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). The policies and positions endorsed by MAGA often prioritize the wealthy and powerful while neglecting the needs of the vulnerable. This disregard for the least among us betrays a fundamental principle of the Gospel: our responsibility to love and care for those on the margins.

 

The kingdom of God, as proclaimed by Jesus, is a vision of radical love, justice, and mercy. It is a kingdom that breaks down walls rather than building them, a kingdom where “there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). When political movements seek to elevate one group over another, sow division, or foster fear and exclusion, they oppose the very heart of the Gospel.

 

As people of faith, it is essential to remember that the Gospel is not a tool to be co-opted for political gain, nor is it a justification for exclusion or oppression. Rather, the Gospel is a call to radical love and justice. It demands that we challenge systems of power that dehumanize and divide, and it compels us to be agents of reconciliation and peace.

 

In light of this, it is clear that the ideology and rhetoric of the MAGA movement stand in stark contrast to the teachings of Christ. Where Christ calls us to love our neighbor, MAGA has often promoted division. Where Christ calls us to serve others humbly, MAGA has sought power and dominance. Where Christ calls us to truth and integrity, MAGA has embraced falsehoods and manipulation. And where Christ calls us to care for the least among us, MAGA has prioritized the interests of the privileged.

 

As followers of Christ, our allegiance is not to a political movement or a nation but to the kingdom of God. In this kingdom, love triumphs over fear, humility over pride, truth over deceit, and compassion over self-interest. We are called to embody these values in our lives, our communities, and yes, even in our politics.

 

May we have the courage to follow the way of Christ, even when it leads us to challenge the status quo. And may we always strive to be people of love, justice, and reconciliation, embodying the radical message of the Gospel in a world that desperately needs it. Amen.

Rev. Allison Burns-LaGreca