(“Pastor's
Parcel” from The
Moving Spirit devotional
newsletter, 10/2016)
I’m
a pastor concerned about God’s Kingdom, but also a citizen who
cares for our nation’s welfare. Like the ‘voter’ in this
cartoon, I’m worried. Am I alone in feeling unusually depressed
about this presidential election year?
Mr. Smith Goes to
Washington (the 1938 movie) left me deeply suspicious of politics. A later film,
Dave (1993), echoed the message that rich business interests control
both elected officials and the media. If true, then such powers this
year made sure that a ‘Mr. Smith’ wouldn’t be running.
J. F. Clarke said, “A politician thinks of the next election; a
statesman, of the next generation.” Controlling interests never
want true statesmen in office.
Pessimistic? Yes, but it
reminds me of optimism about another kind of vote. Political debates
can distract us from important outcomes that depend on us personally.
Each of us has spheres of influence, areas of direct responsibility.
In these, our decisions effect ourselves, others, and
eternity. Only we can make these choices. It’s our soul’s
vote alone.
With the choices offered
by our media-driven political system, I’m sure God won’t judge
our success in life by our apathetic or reluctant voting. But if we
join our cry to the cartoon lady’s “Anyone else...,”
Jesus might reply, “How about electing Me as Executive?”
Christ is indeed the best
Choice for life’s administration. He can balance our budget without
taxing our energy. He’s a Commander-in-chief who will defend us
against spiritually foreign foes. His governing offers “life,
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness,” as well as peace
—but it’s a peace that begins in us, as we obey His law of
love. Let’s cast our prayer-vote for Jesus to run the
country and our lives.
— Pastor
David Hatton
