Learning from the Election
The election polls set an expectation that proved quite false. Again. Instead of a one-sided victory, there’s a tight race. Ballot counters are laboring. And in time, the electoral balance is bound to shift one way or the other as the nation anxiously waits. With the votes that have been counted thus far, it’s quite clear that the nation is divided. And this shouldn’t be all that surprising. Hindsight connects the dots of clear evidence of tension. As I thought about this uncomfortable situation, I came across two lessons for the church. One lesson on what to do. The other on what not to do.
First, the lesson on what to do. An election cycle always brings the energy of campaigning. And I’m not referring to the candidates themselves but to the volunteers. It is refreshing for me to see citizens participate. They are compelled by a vision and move to action. They stand on street corners holding signs. They hand out informational pamphlets. They will take the extra time to explain the nuance of policy and attempt to address any objections. What a challenging example for the church! If there can be so much passion for a political party, of an earthly realm, how much more should there exist passion for the Lord who by His grace granted entrance into a kingdom that will last forever. I think it is quite instructive for the church to observe the political zeal of their neighbors and consider their own gospel zeal. Such contemplation should reinvigorate a gospel vision that moves us to action. Is this not our call from Jesus? Acts 1:8, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” What a good lesson for the church to consider. Let us humbly consider it and pray for the Holy Spirit to work in us for His glory!
Second, a lesson on what not to do. I just enumerated how citizens campaign in the best possible light. But often this is not the case. I’ve seen countless examples of vicious attacks; the shameless straw men summaries of opposing views; speaking but not listening; attacking the person and not addressing ideas… the list can go on with many variations. This could be why many steer far away from ever bringing the subject of politics up. Why do so when it’ll only cause a fight? So there’s no discussion. There’s no ‘argument’ in the best sense of the word of further refining a point. People can just settle within the echo chamber of their own mind or with others who are like minded. Please let me point out that this is what believers should not do. In our witness for Jesus, we are to do it the right way. This involves love and a generous spirit that listens and serves and cares for others with kindness and compassion. 1 Peter 3:15, “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”
There is so much we can learn. And we can learn even from this election. In light of our polarized nation, I pray that we will grow as a witness for Jesus and to do so in the right way. And all for His glory!