During this election season, we see a MUCH milder, but similar display of disdain for people who don't believe as we do. Instead of sharing in love as these martyrs do, far too much energy is focused on putting down others who believe differently than we do and tearing them down personally for those beliefs. Our friends and neighbors are just that, no matter the signs in their lawn or the slogans on their t-shirts or the hats they wear. I stole this title, "Civility", from this past week's sermon title at my church, "What is Civility" which spoke about just this problem and how we should respond as Christians.
Will I cast my vote to ELECT the next round of leaders in my community and country? Yes, but more importantly I will remember I am part of THE elect (Mark 13:20). I will participate by CASTING my vote, but no matter the outcome, I know I can CAST my anxiety on the One who cares for me (1 Peter 5:7). No matter who has the winning NUMBER of the electoral or popular votes, I will "hang tight" with the one who knows the NUMBER of hairs on my head (Luke 12:7).
I will remember that God is ultimately in control as we see in Proverbs 21:1. "In the Lord's hand the king's heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him." Jesus is the answer to the problems of our world, not our political leaders; we need to seek to please Him. I will pray for wisdom in making my voting choices, and choose with the right motives. Then I will let go and fix my eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of my faith (Hebrews 12:2). I have put up my yard sign (above) and will stand firm behind the One who has brought me through the past, walks along side me, and holds the future in His hands, my Lord Jesus Christ, the king of my heart.