Talking Faith | God cares about people, not political parties

Over the last two weeks, there has been a lot said about the future of our country.

From politicians and delegates to members of the media and many others on social media, everyone seems to have a take about what should happen in November's election.

That's expected and is healthy.

As I've watched the coverage, it makes me wonder who God would vote for the in upcoming election.

Is He is heaven today wearing a "Make America Great Again" hat?

Is he with Hillary, or "Feeling the Bern?"

Yes, I know these are silly questions.

But we don't think that way.

Try the Rev. Mark Burns from South Carolina, who after being asked to give an opening prayer at the Republican National Convention, very quickly made it all about Republican nominee Donald Trump.

"Republicans, we got to be united because our enemy is not other Republicans — but is Hillary Clinton and the Democratic Party," he told audience members.

Burns' words are gross.

One might not agree with Hillary Clinton or the Democratic Party, but they are far for the enemy. In fact, I think those who use prayers to spout politics should have their motives questioned.

But Burns didn't stop there as he began praying.

"We’re thankful that you are guiding him, that you are giving him the words to unite this party, this country, that we together can defeat the liberal Democratic Party. Keep us united and not divided. Because we are the United States of America, and we are the conservative party under God.

"To defeat every attack that comes against us, to protect the life of Donald Trump, give him the words, give him the space, give him the power and the authority to be the next President of the United States of America, in Jesus’ name."

What?

God is not Republican or Democrat. And when it comes to politics, he cares more about people.

He cares about the leaders of our country.

Are we praying for them?

We, myself included, spend more time complaining about our presidential choices than praying for who will be leading our country.

And God cares about us, even when we don't care about others.

It seems as though we never have been more divided as a country.

I don't know which side is right, but our focus needs to be more on caring for each other as people.

We can disagree on issues, but God is focused more on us as people than the political parties or issues.

Let's do the same.

Chris Pugh is a web producer and a faith columnist for the Media Network of Central Ohio. You can connect with him at clpugh@gannett.com, Facebook at Chris Pugh - Journalist or on Twitter @CPugh_Gannett.