I’ve been quiet this election—not because I don’t have thoughts—but partly because there are already so many people lending their voices to the brouhaha. I’ve also been saddened at how this election season has unleashed a repugnant wave of Christians behaving badly.
Whatever the outward issue, I believe the underlying one is the emotion of fear. Whether progressive or conservative, voters fear that this election will monumentally determine the course of their lives. This election decision is so troubling that there is unrest even in Christ’s flock as Christians look to the future with fear.
But Jesus says, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
On a recent trip to Hong Kong, I tangibly felt the oppression of a country caught in the middle of political and religious turmoil—much like the U.S. is right now. The Holy Spirit prompted me with this thought:
“The darkest of times is the right time to ask—how much light can I cast? How much of Christ can I reflect?”
Matthew 5 rings true today more than ever before.
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:14-16)
I’m not sure what is ahead for our country, but I am not afraid, because the Sovereign God is Lord of all.
If the past 6 months are any indication, there are going to be ample opportunities and an absolute critical need for Christ’s followers and His Church to be beacons of hope. Christians need to stop acting like the rest of the vicious and vociferous culture in our everyday conversations and what we post on social media, and instead lovingly bring God’s Word to bear on the world around us in both truth and deed.
“I might believe in the Redeemer if his followers looked more redeemed.” – German atheist, Friedrich Nietzsche
[Tweet “No matter who sits in the seats of our government, King Jesus rules us.”]Let’s recommit ourselves to be shining lights reflecting the Savior we follow—full of love, compassion and forgiveness. No matter who sits in the seats of our government, King Jesus rules us. And as citizens of His Kingdom, now more than ever, we must be His light.
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