There have been some puzzling rumors lately about a group called “Christian nationalists” causing a ruckus in the town of Prescott, Arizona. As a place with old-fashioned Wild West roots and lots of good-natured folks who keep to themselves, this new drama is confusing.
Prescott seems like a quiet, peaceful spot where people look out for each other, cheer on the high school football team on Friday nights, and spend Sundays enjoying potlucks at church before watching the game. But apparently things are changing, and not necessarily for the better.
What’s the Deal With These Folks?
From conversations with some concerned residents, these so-called “Christian nationalist” folks have been stirring up trouble around town – from showing up at city council meetings to preaching outside the local high school. They talk about turning America into a “Christian nation” again and how the people of Prescott need to get right with God (meaning their version of God).
It seems these zealous characters want to force their particular beliefs and values onto the whole community. Like many Prescottians, most locals are Christian but don’t think that gives them the right to judge others or impose their faith on people. This aggressive approach doesn’t sit well with many.
They wonder, whatever happened to freedom of religion and conscience? Aren’t we all entitled to a personal relationship with the divine without someone claiming theirs is right? Who are these folks to dictate how others should believe?
How’d Things Get So Divisive?
To be honest, this nationalist movement is deeply troubling. Prescott has always seemed like a welcoming place for people of all backgrounds, faiths, and political leanings.
Sure, most folks here are Christian and conservative to some degree. But everyone gets along with mutual respect. This us-versus-them attitude just isn’t how Prescott is known to be.
So how did outside agitators gain influence here? Well, people have been stressed and isolated lately – the pandemic, inflation, political conflicts, and more. Fear abounds. Folks are grasping for the familiar.
That’s when these nationalists swoop in, exploiting vulnerability under the guise of faith. But their harsh rhetoric divides further.
Of course, beliefs can provide comfort during hardship. But true faith should unite, not tear apart. Hopefully, Prescott sees that before it’s too late.
What Would Jesus Do?
What would Jesus do in this climate? Would he shout condemnations at the city council or accost teenagers with warnings about sin? Would he force his teachings through mandates and public spectacles?
Probably not. Jesus walked among outcasts – the poor, sick, marginalized. He taught through compassion, not coercion. He seemed to respect people’s free will to follow him or not.
Most wish others could feel the grace they’ve found in faith. But Jesus didn’t demand mass allegiance. Why should these folks feel entitled to force their narrow Christianity here? That’s not Jesus’ example.
What Would We Have Done?
Perhaps mainstream Christians enabled extremism through complacency. While embracing kindness and community, they ignored those drifting toward domination in faith’s name. But reconciliation and truth-telling could prevail.
The Bible says, “The Lord’s servant must not quarrel but be kind to all.” Prescottians hope to embody this – standing firm in their convictions while still respecting every person’s dignity, regardless of differences.
If views conflict, listen first with empathy as fellow children of God. Find common humanity behind the rhetoric. There is more that unites Prescott than divides it. But people must open their hearts and speak about this.
What Now?
How can Prescott counter those seeking to divide it?
First, recommit to the virtues of freedom, democracy, and religious liberty that make America great. Don’t fight intolerance with intolerance. As the saying goes, only light can drive out darkness.
Next, focus on solutions that bring people together – support reasonable leaders and propositions. Volunteer at local charities, schools, and churches that uplift through love. Get to know your neighbors. Stay anchored in hope.
Prescott has overcome rocky times before by banding together. It can rise above this test too if citizens stand united. Goodness still reigns in most hearts. It must be nurtured to conquer fear and despair.
The divine spark in all people seeks justice, empathy, and unity. By nurturing that spirit and tuning out demagogues, Prescott will emerge more loving and stronger than ever.
There is hope. Stand together. This too shall pass.
