Whose 10 Commandments

As a concerned citizen and voter, I am writing to address a pressing issue in our political and moral discourse. Many of our elected leaders advocate for conservative Christian values and support initiatives like displaying the Ten Commandments in public schools. While these commandments provide a moral foundation that many respect and wish to instill in future generations, I am compelled to question whether our leadership exemplifies these principles. Former President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed such measures, stating, “I LOVE THE TEN COMMANDMENTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, PRIVATE SCHOOLS, AND MANY OTHER PLACES, FOR THAT MATTER.” However, his actions and statements often appear to contradict these very commandments: 1. “You shall have no other gods before Me.” • Trump has emphasized his own power and status, at times referring to himself in exalted terms. 2. “You shall not make for yourself a carved image.” • The prominence of Trump’s name and image on buildings and merchandise reflects a focus on personal branding. Golden statues of him have appeared at political events and his social media. 3. “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.” • Trump has used religious rhetoric for political gain, raising concerns about the sincerity of such expressions. 4. “Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.” • Trump’s Sunday activities often include golfing and political rallies, with limited emphasis on traditional observance. 5. “Honor your father and mother.” • Trump has made statements about his family that some perceive as lacking respect. 6. “You shall not murder.” • While not directly committing murder, Trump’s rhetoric has been criticized for inciting harmful actions and hate crimes. He once stated, “I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody, and I wouldn’t lose any voters.” 7. “You shall not commit adultery.” • Trump has faced allegations of extramarital affairs and misconduct, and has been known to objectify women. 8. “You shall not steal.” • Trump’s business practices have been scrutinized, leading to numerous bankruptcies, legal challenges and settlements. 9. “You shall not bear false witness.” • Trump has been documented making numerous false, bullying, or misleading statements. 10. “You shall not covet.” • Trump has openly expressed desires for others’ possessions, land, wealth, and status. Given these contradictions, I ask: Is this the moral example we wish to promote in our schools and society? If we advocate for the display of the Ten Commandments in educational settings will our kids read what was intended or what this current administration’s actions show them? It is crucial to reflect on whether political allegiance has overshadowed our commitment to genuine Christian principles. To instill faith-based values in our nation, we must lead by example, not by overlooking discrepancies between our professed beliefs and actions.