Rev. Samuel Rodriguez is a friend of the ONE Campaign. He has worked with and advised President George W. Bush, President Obama, and President Trump. He frequently consults with members of both parties in Congress. We recently connected with Rev. Rodriguez to learn why he cares about the work and mission of the ONE Campaign.
Why did you get involved with the ONE Campaign?
As a Christ follower, I believe that the cross is both vertical and horizontal: righteousness and justice, conviction and compassion. The ONE Campaign enables me to engage in a cause that embodies compassion, mercy, and love.
Why is being involved with ONE important to you?
It speaks to a metanarrative of compassion and recognition. Every single human being carries the image of God and is worthy of dignity and respect. The alleviation of poverty must stand in the forefront of every viable justice movement on the planet.
Why do you think being an advocate should matter to other people?
Hopefully and prayerfully, my advocacy can help others reflect on our greater purpose. We are not on this planet to occupy space. We are on this planet to shine the light of grace, truth, mercy, and love. We are on this planet to do good, to make it a better place, to help those that are struggling, and to bring good news to the poor.
What was something you learned when you got more involved that surprised you?
What surprised me is that people from different socio-economic walks who embrace totally different political ideologies, and even from diverse faith streams (or lack thereof), can come together and partner for the greater good.
Have you had the chance to visit the global south? If you have, what was the singular most impactful experience you had while you were there?
Firstly, we must be truly grateful for what we have. We take so much for granted. Second, we can do so much more if we come together and advocate for the fulfillment of the goals outlined by this campaign. Third, our efforts, by the grace of God, do not represent an exercise in futility. The ONE Campaign is literally saving lives and changing the world.
What do you have coming up that you would like to share with ONE members?
I released two books recently, BE LIGHT and Shake Free. Both books speak to a metanarrative of transforming our surroundings through the conduits of truth, love, mercy, grace, and compassion.
Today’s complacency is tomorrow’s captivity. We are what we tolerate. There is no such thing as comfortable Christianity. While many Christians are waiting for Jesus to come down, Jesus is waiting for his church to stand up and change the world.
