On A President that Tithes

Every year at taxtime, I read about the president's taxes. After marveling at the thought of earning over $400,000 in investment trusts, I always notice how much the president gives away. President Bush, as much as I recall, has been fairly consistent in his donations: he and his wife give about 10% of their income away:

The couple contributed $77,785 -- about 10 percent of their adjusted gross income -- to churches and charitable organizations. Those included Evergreen Chapel at Camp David, Md., St. John's Church in Washington, the American Red Cross, the Salvation Army World Service Office, AmeriCares, an international relief organization; and the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

As Evangelical Christians, the Bushes seem to be giving the 10% of their income that tithing requires. This kind of giving is good. How much better might the world be if everyone gave away 10% of their income to churches or charities rather than interest payments on credit-card balances!

I wonder though, if his contributions to the Salvation Army ever raise questions, given the church's frequently criticized position on homosexuality. Given that President Bush is often criticized for his religious perspective and expressions, I wonder if folks might see a tension between his willingness to privately support groups like the Salvation Army and his public position as president.