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SERVING OUR COUNTRY: Having Served (An Interview with Former Congressman Mark Neumann)
Clearly Caring Magazine, Sept/Oct 2008, Vol. 28, No. 5Mark Neumann served as a member of the U.S. States House of Representatives from 1996 to 1999. He currently operates a home construction company and is a member of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church in Pewaukee, Wisconsin.
Why did you pursue political office?
The Lord has been and continues to generously bless our family, and we wanted to be in a position to help others. Holding an elected office provided us with opportunities to do just that.
How was being elected consistent with the Christian mission?
While in Congress, sharing a part of Scripture with a fellow member was not uncommon. Because of my time in Congress I have had many opportunities to lead Bible studies related to church and state in our churches.
What family adjustments were necessary?
Sue and I had three teenagers while I served in Congress. I spent three or four nights a week in Washington while they were in Wisconsin. I called every night and talked to each of the teens. Many parents of teens cannot get them to tell them much about their lives, but in our case they had to talk because they were on the phone.
The description of a Christian wife in 1 Peter 3 was clearly evident as Sue handled the kids, maintained the home, traveled as needed, and in general stabilized our family.
What were your most unexpected surprises and disappointments while in office?
I was surprised at how many in Congress seemed to be committed Christians. I was disappointed in how political things really were and how many of the members seemed to "follow along" without a good understanding of some issues.
Will you run for office again?
The words of James 4:13-17 are useful tools in planning my life. If it is the Lord's will I would consider it a privilege to run for office again and serve the people if elected.
Was there any portion of God's Word that you leaned on while serving in public office?
The most worn page of my Bible referenced Matthew 6:25-34 where Jesus tells us not to worry. James 1:2-7 also reminded me that trials lead to maturity and that wisdom will be provided to those who do not doubt.
Were there any politicians who kindled your passion to serve in public office?
Abraham Lincoln. He was a great role model in overcoming obstacles and in terms of openly acknowledging our Lord.
Were there any Christians that inspired your service in public office?
My pastor at St. Matthew's in Janesville had the courage to lead the nation in prayer in an opening of the Congress one morning. I admired him and appreciated his always being there for our family.
What benefit do you see in Christians pursuing public office?
Someone once said, "In order for evil to succeed it takes good people to do nothing." If we wish to see our ideas and values as the laws of the land then we need to be involved. Otherwise, folks on the other side will gladly implement their views and values which in many cases are anything but Christian. I am not referring to Democrats and Republicans but to anyone who would create laws contrary to Christian principles.
What dangers do you see for Christians pursuing service in public office?
Often your faith is tested while serving in office. It is easy to get caught up with the "going along to get along" attitude and lose one's way.
If someone wants to serve in an elected office, what should he or she do?
Do something else first. Have a job and a career outside of politics. This nation was formed by people from all walks of life putting aside their work to serve this nation and then return to the private sector to live under the laws they passed. There are too many career politicians making decisions for our land.
What great issues face our nation that continues to concern you?
I am concerned for the long-term safety and well-being of our nation. The world is not safe, and there are those who would take our freedoms, in particular our freedom to worship, away. Our nation's ability to defend itself is a high priority.
I am concerned about Social Security. We Christians care for the well-being of others. Many of our senior citizens rely on the Social Security system that it does not have the monies necessary to fulfill the promises that have been made.
Over-taxation is also a concern. The government takes this money from our families and spends it in ways many would find offensive, such as some of the publicly-funded art displays and/or the funding of abortions with tax dollars.
Christians should be concerned that traditional values relating to families are put aside in legislation allowing for non-traditional family formation.
How do you respond to those who say your faith and politics should be separate?
How can my faith be separated from anything I do? I do not see serving in public office as an opportunity to force Christianity on anyone, but I also do not believe you need to leave your faith at the door when entering work as an elected official.
What else would you like to tell the Clearly Caring readers?
It was an honor and privilege to serve our country as a member of the United States House of Representatives. Sue and I greatly appreciated all of the loving support we received from Christians all across Wisconsin and beyond. It did matter.
WEBSITE RESOURCES AT www.ChristianLifeResources.com
The Christian as a Public Servant (Shortcut # 5473)
The Christian Responsibility of Obedience and Action (Shortcut # 5282)
Article Shortcut: http://www.christianliferesources.com?7773
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