CNN was kind to broadcast Obama’s acceptance speech and related celebrations live on their website last night, which was great for a TV cheapskate like me (Crystal and I have a small dinosaur of a set that we lug out for the occasional DVD). I watched a decent amount of the introductory fare, but I only caught the first and the last parts of the speech proper. From what I saw, Obama did a fine job honoring those who had helped him in his campaign. I thought his words about John McCain were particularly gracious, and I commend him for that.
Here’s my one thought about the event: this was a church service for many people.
Think about it. There was an opening prayer (concluded in Jesus’ name), special music (National Anthem), liturgical recitation (Pledge of Allegiance), dancing, tears, and an address by a national savior. I think for a lot of folks, last night was akin to a religious experience.
4 comments
Comments feed for this article
November 5, 2008 at 12:40 pm
Tim
Good observation. I have noticed the “churchy” atmosphere at many of the Obama rallies that I have read about or seen clips from. I attended an Obama rally this past summer in Detroit (not as a fan, but as an objective observer) and felt like I was at a rock concert. (I must confess I’ve never actually been to a rock concert, but have seen plenty of pictures and video to have a good idea what the atmosphere is like.) The Motown music was blaring, people were jumping, dancing, waving their arms. When Obama finally spoke, you could close your eyes and imagine yourself at a “TV church” - he received “amens,” “that’s right”s, “uh-huh”s, etc. Very little factual discourse occurred; it was a glorified “church service” persuading the masses to “vote for change,” especially in regards to one’s wallet. Gone are the days of factual discussion and debate. These are the days of catch-phrases, images, and celebrities…to our demise.
November 5, 2008 at 1:15 pm
Wink Rush
I just pray that God will change his heart and he will vote Biblically when it comes to same sex marriages and abortion. God does have the king’s heart in His hand, so I know that all things will work to the good for those that love God, and are called according to His purpose.
November 6, 2008 at 7:57 am
Keri Rosen
And just look at who they were worshiping.
November 6, 2008 at 3:56 pm
Damon
Jonathan,
I think you’re right-on. I also think many poltical speeches are like this, from both parties. It’s very easy to pin your hopes only to a candidate, and not to the one who ultimatley works out all things for the good of his people.