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by Gregory Hogan

"What would you like to see the law say about homeschooling?" That question came to me from a State Senator. For the next 45 minutes we discussed the current regulations on homeschooling, and how I wanted to see homeschooling protected by law. We then discussed educational freedom and parental rights. When our conversation was over, the Senator thanked me for my time and opinions.

When my friend, the State Senator, is in our state capital, he is invited to attend a reception every morning and evening the Assembly is in session. Groups spend thousands of dollars hoping that the legislators will attend their receptions so that they may have their ear for a few minutes. How did I get the ear of a State Senator and have him want to see my ideas put into legislation? I have learned some primary steps in politics that open doors for me. If we, as Christians, want to have influence in the political arena, we must take some of these simple steps that could open many doors for us.

In this article, I do not want to debate the finer points of political philosophy. I want to put out some lessons I have learned and help those that want to have political influence for the kingdom of God. I am stating this in the context of the political realities where Providence has placed us.

1. Politics is not a dirty word.

I know many people, Christian and non-Christian, that avoid politics because they do not want to soil their hands. Simply put, politics is the way we govern ourselves in this republic. Political activity does not mean that we must in any way compromise our personal integrity or biblical convictions. In politics, you will eat with many publicans and sinners, but you can laugh with them as did our Master and still be called the Sons of Light. But first we must be bedrock certain of our convictions. Then, we need to articulate them at the proper time. Usually I begin a political conversation with, "My number one national concern is the sanctity and dignity of human life." The pro-life issue is the defining moral agenda of our day, and that statement shows my orientation for political involvement.

By graciously stating my pro-life foundation, I have gained respect from "pro-choice" people. One young woman on the staff of our county party is decidedly "pro-choice." Yet, because I have been gracious to her and have proven myself, she has placed me on several programs. I have given opening prayers before the Governor, U. S. Senators, Representatives, State Legislators, and State Supreme Court Justices. I did not have to compromise to be there. I just had to reflect the graciousness of the Friend of publicans and sinners.

2. Become active in a political party.

I think the greatest way to have influence is to become involved in a political party. I have chosen one of the major political parties because I see it as a network to build relationships with people. Political parties exist to win elections and govern. I have chosen a party that has the opportunity to do that.

The best place for political influence is at the local club level of the party. This is the place where you meet local officials and candidates that are seeking to build relationships with you. When the candidates come to our club meetings, they are looking for supporters, money, and ideas for their campaigns. They are more than willing to spend time talking to me, hearing my ideas, and being open to my influence, in exchange for the help that I am willing to offer candidates that I get behind. This is true grassroots politics, and it usually happens six to nine months before the election.

My friend, the State Senator, was a city councilman when I first met him. He was appointed to an unfulfilled term of a previous senator who had been appointed to the Governor's Cabinet. Because I am active in politics in the local clubs, I have been able to gain him as a friend. I have given money to his campaign and distributed literature for him, but the friendship has gained me the chance to give him input on the policies in the state legislature.

My advice to anyone wanting to have influence in the political arena is to get involved in the local club level of politics. It is here that the small gifts of $25 to $50 will encourage the candidates the most, and gain for you friendship with the politicians.

3. Influence for the long haul.

We often hear complaints about big money buying politics, and it does. But there are other ways to buy political influence, and that is with time and friendship. The $25 that I gave to the office holder at his party last year was appreciated more than the $250 he is charging for his party this year. I am going to that party and getting complimentary tickets, because I have been a supporter all along. Politicians know who just shows up when they want something. We need to be their friends and stick by them for the long haul. Influence is something we build over time.

I am advocating getting involved in the lives of the men and women seeking political office. If they know they can trust you, they will seek your advice and perspective on the issues. By being dependable, I have gained an office in the county party; I have been on the recommendation committee that screens candidates to receive party support; I have been invited to speak with presidential candidates; and I have built a support base to gain my own elected office. This has come by being found faithful and friendly to those I meet in my political activities.

You do not need a lot of money or really that much time. What you need is the attitude of the Friend of publicans and sinners who taught us by His example how we are to disciple the nations.

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