Nov 4, 2024
Tomorrow, November 5, 2024 is a momentous day for our nation and the world as we the people elect a new president and congress. I don’t know a person who is not ready for this campaign cycle to be over. We are weary with the speeches, the weaves, the rhetoric, the divisiveness of this campaign season and are ready to have it decided.
I personally have very strong feelings about who I believe the next president should be (and who it should definitely NOT be) and will be voting accordingly. You may have strong feelings, too, and, who knows, our votes might cancel each other out. Half of the nation will be disappointed either way it turns out.
My point is this: how are we going to behave in the aftermath of the election results?
Please consider these wise and encouraging words from Jeff S. Johnson, an elder at Independent Presbyterian Church. Jeff writes, “The rising sun on Wednesday is a metaphor for new beginnings—a moment to determine how we will approach the day ahead. The urgent needs of the world do not pause for election results. There will still be individuals grappling with hunger, seekers in need of shelter, and those in distress longing for healing and comfort. In the wake of the election, regardless of the outcomes, we have to focus our energies on fostering an environment of kindness, peace, humility, and generosity. The ballot box is just one avenue of influence; our true impact is measured by our actions beyond the elections. On this Wednesday, let’s commit to engaging with our communities, uplifting those in need, and embodying the hope we aspire to cultivate. Ultimately, the day after Election Day serves as a crucial reminder that hope isn’t a fleeting emotion tied to political outcomes. It is a conscious choice we make to remain involved, to support one another, and to act with compassion and purpose. Let us seize this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to each other and the values that define us, ensuring that hope remains a guiding light, regardless of the challenges we face. Together, we can nurture a spirit of resilience and empathy that transcends political divides, paving the way to true community.”
So friends, can we commit to being peacemakers this week? Peacemaking requires us to reject manipulation and violence, reject sowing cynicism and distrust into the system, and continue to practice unity in diversity, hospitality, and work for the common good of all. This is especially true for Christians. When we lock in on only one acceptable outcome for this election, and even marry God’s will to only one acceptable outcome, we are raising something that is temporal to the level that we should only hold things that are eternal. We are practicing an idolatrous syncretism that marries a secular political outcome directly to the progress of the Kingdom of God.
I’m not saying be happy about it. I’m not saying don’t be upset. I am only saying that the simple act of acceptance, and the willingness to move forward constructively and commit to the common good no matter what, is one powerful way we can love our neighbor and build a stronger society for Christ’s sake and for the sake of Christ’s kindom.
As ever in prayer,
Sue
Oh, and here’s how you can find out where you vote in Alabama if you need it.