A few minutes ago I sent a letter to the editor of the Elkhart Truth. It is in response to a letter by Ken Miller. One of his main concerns was that Jesus taught individuals, not governments. Here is my letter:
Ken Miller describes what he believes are flawed principles that guide liberals, and then offers his own. It is true that Jesus spoke mostly to the grassroots. However, a fuller reading of the gospels reveals that Jesus spoke critically to individuals whose powers were derived from linage, wealth or position among his own people.
Miller does not seem to understand that bumper stickers, like letters to an editor, are really meant to be read by ordinary citizens who help form and give purpose to governments. Since our nation is sharply divided over the purpose of our government, I believe the people might revisit the constitution and its preamble. I offer the following as a fresh start:
We the (ordinary and extraordinary) People (of everyreligion and ethnicity) of the United States, in Order to form (through thoughtful and deliberate compromise) a more perfect Union, (being truly one in order to) establish Justice, (all people treated fairly), insure domestic Tranquility, (all people at peace) provide for the common defense, (feed and clothe enemies and wish them well) promote the general Welfare (through adequate housing, nutrition, and universal healthcare) and (secure) the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, (without debt) do ordain and establish this Constitution (as a way of governing) for the United States of America.