We are a couple of days away from a national day of decision. Perhaps more so than in previous presidential elections, we are going to determine the future of the nation. Every citizen should vote thoughtfully, thinking of the common good before personal preferences.
Biblical historians tell us that the earliest Christians faced major challenges, too. Sometimes within a congregation there was discord and division, and it took wise counsel to hold things together. The Apostle Paul gave some good advice when he wrote a letter to the church in Ephesus and reminded them that “There is one body and one Spirit…make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.” (Ephesians 4). If you are a follower of the Jesus Way, this expression of faith we call Christianity, you have an obligation to be a peace maker, to be a proponent of unity in the midst of discord. This is who we are. This is in our spiritual DNA, and Paul’s spiritual advice extends beyond the life of a congregation into the community and culture. We, of all people, must demonstrate the life and message of Jesus. His life principles and practices were universal, world oriented, not religiously restricted. No matter what political position we support, we walk The Way of Jesus as a first commitment.
Lord God, king of the universe, help me see light in all darkness, hope when life looks challenging. Help me find the courage to live the faith commitment that I profess. I will honor you by my intentional efforts to create unity, to bind us all together in peace, and to work in the spirit of Jesus toward a future that blesses and benefits this nation and all your precious creation. Amen
Shining Spirit 
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