Church and State

Much is said, probably too much in fact, about 'the wall of separation between church and state'. But the most common misconception is that it exists, so far as it does, more for the sake of our politics than religion as religion.

What effect can honest religious thought and action have on the government, other than make it better? Yet what effect can government have on religion other than make it worse? There are ideals from religion which could be adapted by government that would surely give us better leadership and laws: charity, respect for neighbors (even enemies), and a decent consideration for man and his place in the universe can only improve our lot in life. Government teaches us bureaucracy and what have you done for me lately. There's no lesson in that for the Church.

But more than anything, the separation keeps government from dictating to religion what it must do. It keep us safe from Washington dictating our conscience to us. It protects us from Big Brother. And why?

Because, in the long run, government is a threat to religion far more than religion to government. It cannot be any other way, because government is ultimately about power. Religion is ultimately about saving souls. Government at best can only see to day to day needs. Religion speaks to eternity.