"You Lie!" and respect for the office

I am in danger of talking about something that is already outside of the 48 hour news cycle. I have heard that in today's quick news and communication world if it's past 48 hours it's probably worn out it's welcome (or at least newsworthiness.) Oh well, here goes anyway, the above mentioned title refers to an outburst a U.S. congressman made to the President of the United States in front of the entire congress and national television.


This is a sad example of something that is happening here, there and everywhere -- lost respect for authority. Now I did not vote for Mr. Obama, but he is the President. He was democratically elected to represent the people of the United States as the executive officer. He also is the head of state and should be treated as such. I remember from management training in the hotel business: "praise in public, rebuke in private." At least that seems to be the way to be respectful to folks and bring about positive change. It is abhorrable that the outbursting congressman (or people from his outfit) are benefiting financially from this mess; as his campaign has raised over "200 large" since the outburst.

I am not sure where I stand on the Healthcare debate. But I do know the problem seems to be bringing out the worst in people. As a Christian, we have a charge to share the good news of Christ. With so many credible people seemingly on both sides of this debate it would seem that the best things for Christians to do is participate in consensus that is brought about honorably and respectfully. It doesn't seem easy to answer. I believe that a growing lack of individual responsibility for family wellbeing and righteousness will corrode our society. But as believers we have direct commandments to care for the "least of these." The questions are, I guess, why isn't the church more involved? And should government be involved to the degree that some propose?