Christ Is King
Did you know that there is an election next week? It is causing a lot of anxiety for people. Much of the anxiety is amplified by social media and traditional media outlets. It is a constant barrage of people who literally hate one another. The venom that is being spouted is getting worse and worse. It happens from all sides. It shows the lack of care that we have for one another. We can have disagreements about issues, but it goes beyond the pale when it becomes personal attacks. Christians are called to be examples of restraint and godliness in the face of such rhetoric. We must not be a part of the vitriol; instead, we have the power to set an example of grace and peace.
When you vote, vote based on the issues, not the people. As your pastor, I will never tell you who to vote for. You must pray about it and weigh the pros and cons for all candidates. I do ask that you pray for all the candidates and their families. Pray for those who vote like you and choose a different outcome. When the votes are tabulated and winners are announced, pray there will be peace in our land. No matter who wins, I know there will be unhappy people, but that does not allow us to be antagonistic toward others. God calls us to be a people of peace and grace. We are to pray for those who are in authority. Remember, in his sovereignty, God places leaders into positions of power. This should bring us comfort and trust in his plan.
Romans 13:1 says, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” Paul is writing this while Nero was the Roman emperor. You do not get much worse than him. We must keep all things in perspective. We all want God to be glorified in whatever does happen in the election.
The most important thing to remember is that, above all, Christ is King. No matter who our elected officials may be, they are still subject to Christ. We do not know why God allows certain people to be elected. Whatever the reason, it is for his glory. Our call is to continue to share the gospel of Jesus Christ and change hearts and minds through the power of his love and grace.
Let us be the examples of how we are to love all people so they might come to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior!
