“’Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, to all the exiles whom I have sent into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon: Build houses and live in them; plant gardens and eat their produce. Take wives and have sons and daughters; take wives for your sons, and give your daughters in marriage, that they may bear sons and daughters; multiply there, and do not decrease. But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.’”
Jeremiah 29:4-7 (ESV)
Finally, this seemingly unending political season has reached its end. As I write this, we are nearing the final 24 hours before the nationwide polls will be closed. I wanted to get this posted before the announcement of a winner as it is being written from a non-partisan position to encourage those who name the Name, regardless of political affiliation. Weather you meet the announcement of the new President-Elect with anticipation or caution, joy or dread, I urge you to heed the above words of Jeremiah.
As Christians, we believe in the “Sovereignty of God.” Whether we take that to mean God has pre-determined the winner of the election, or that it means He can work out His plans through whoever has won, it means that the LORD is ultimately in control. No matter how sure we are of God’s provision, our faith is constantly being tested. Some, at the conclusion of this Presidential race, may identify more heavily with the feelings of exile being experienced by Judah and Israel in Babylon. Jeremiah 29 presents a call for all Christians to interact with the society in which they find themselves. This includes a vibrant and active prayer life, but I also believe that it includes active participation in that community.
If your candidate won, hold them accountable. Own your vote, but if that person begins to turn from the ideas and ideals that persuaded you to give them your vote, call them on it. Literally. Get on the phone and call the White House. Type out a letter and mail it. Encourage those who agree with you to do the same.
If your vote was for the defeated candidate you, too, should hold the winner accountable. If you feel he is doing poorly, get vocal about it. Maintain a dialogue with his supporters. Do all these things in love and with grace. Do not let anger or dismay taint your witness for Christ.
Finally, stay active REGARDLESS of your affiliation. Christians need to BE the change we want to see in our culture. If you want the poor to be lifted up, do it. If you think single mothers need to be shown the love of God, show them. We live in a broken world, but God has left His people as evidence of His existence. We are called to be His hands and feet to those in need of Him. That, of course, includes love and kindness to widows, orphans and other “down and outs.” It also includes each other.
Amen.
Amen.
