Dear Friends,
We made it, friends! Another election season has come and gone. It’s time to take a deep breath and celebrate that our country cares about our thoughts and our votes. We get to vote, which is a great privilege that most of history could not have imagined.
For some, the election outcome is a time of joy. For others, it’s a time of disappointment. We are a nation and, subsequently, a church of people from all walks of life, each carrying their hopes and hurts. Some are thrilled, and some are feeling down.
I think most realize we are an ideologically divided nation. In a world of identity politics, it’s easy to let our votes or political affiliations define our very existence. Political parties, platforms, and candidates can start to feel like they define us, but they were never meant to.
Here’s the good news: you and I are invited into something more profound than aligning ourselves with any personal or political agenda. When we decide to be a follower of God, we align ourselves with something that is bigger than American or global politics: JESUS. One thing is true today; it was true yesterday and will be confirmed a thousand years from now. “The earth and the fullness thereof are the Lords.” Psalm 24:1
Because of this truth, I am absolutely at peace with the world. If the election had turned out differently, I would still be at peace with the world. To think an American election could somehow thwart the work of God in the world does not hold up against an understanding of the providence and sovereignty of God.
Finally, we are not the same, but we were created by the same God. At least in the macro, we were designed using the exact blueprint. Each of us contains the eternal spark, the image of God. I am convinced the great majority of us want the same things: purpose, love, kindness, and the opportunity to thrive, and we want that for everyone else, too. So, love your neighbors! Jesus challenges you to love others as God loves us.
Blessing to All,
Pastor Corey