A Few Days Later

In case you haven't heard, there was an election yesterday.  Democrats regained control of the US House and Senate.  They also won a majority of governorships as well.  Political pundits are busy analyzing the results, telling us why we voted the way we did.  On the Democratic side, there are many taking credit for their political brilliance.  On the Republican side, there is much finger-pointing and blame. 

Part of America is singing; part of America is lamenting.  A load of fear has shifted from one group to another.   So, what should Christians thinking about on this day after the election?

First, the outcome of the universe does not depend on who wins an election.  Our Heavenly Father is still in charge and will control the times and seasons of his creation.  Whether our candidate won or lost does not impact God’s ultimate plans.  If you think God’s will depends on an election, your God is too small.

Second, God loves and Jesus died for every candidate who ran, every political operative, and every voter.  This is why Jesus told us in clear language that we are to love our enemies.  Why?  Because our Heavenly Father loves those we agree with and those we disagree with.

Third, when I spread falsehoods and lies, when I post poisonous statements, and when I demonize those who see the world differently, I am not acting like Jesus.  I am acting like the enemy.  I believe Satan is real and he deceives Christians to believe the ends justify the means.  He has done it throughout history, and he is consistent in his methods.

Fourth, I must remember every candidate I voted for or against is a fallen sinner, just like me.  A former president once promised to create a government as good as its people.  He was prophetic, but not in the way he thought.  There are none good, no not one.  A government cannot embody ultimate righteousness.  Ultimate righteousness belongs to God alone.  This is why we need to pray for all those serving in government, whether we voted for them or not, because they are all fallen sinners.

Fifth, as a follower of Jesus, I must remember that government, politicians, and laws cannot fix the underlying human condition.  We are broken people, in need of grace.  That grace comes only from our creator.  Of course, some politicians are better than others.  It doesn't mean they are perfect.  Of course, some laws are better than others.  But no law is perfect.  As Paul reiterated time and again, laws show us the boundaries, but do not change our nature.  Only resurrection power can change us.

I could go on, but here is one more thought to hang onto: I'm writing this outside, as the day is fading.  There is color in the trees, coolness in the air.  I just celebrated a birthday and blew out my candles with my two-year-old grandson.  Life is a gift and it is good.  Nothing that happened on election day changed the way my Heavenly Father loves me.  Nothing changed his grace.  A verse from Psalms comes to mind: "Put not your trust in princes..." Or politicians.  Cling to the words of the old hymn: "My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus' blood and righteousness."