As the dust settles on another election in the United States, about half the country is depressed and half is elated. Listening to the radio and various conversations today, it seems that a good number of Christians find themselves deflated, defeated, and depressed. This is the result of putting our hope in earthly governments and finding at least some of our identity in our nationality. As followers of Jesus, we must remember that we are not of this world (John 15:19). We have a higher call to be the hands and feet of Jesus. We are to reflect the light of God’s truth into the dark world around us. Carrying out the mission of Christ remains our commission regardless of who happens to be in residence at the White House.
I understand the emotions that many feel in regards to politics. I am not immune to those same feelings. However, it is vital that we put them in their proper perspective. Our hope must be in Christ alone. Only through Jesus will we find peace, unity, and understanding. It is only in Him we find worth and value. Governments are run by men and women who, on their best days, are still 100% human. They will falter. They will make mistakes. Far better we place our trust in the Creator of the Universe, the only true King. Jesus will never disappoint us. He’ll never let us down. He is holy, He is just, and He is all powerful. At the same time He is ever merciful and ever loving. Compare those attributes to any politician and I believe you will see how frivolous it is to put our faith in an elected official.
It is our job to share the love and hope of Jesus so others will follow Him and get their name written in His book of life. Our mission is to model the life of Christ so completely that others are drawn to Him. We are to rescue the oppressed and stand in the way of injustice (Isaiah 58:6). If we do not look after the poor, the sick, the orphan, and the widow, who will? Regardless of whether you are excited or disappointed with the results of the election, remember that life is not about you.
What happens in the USA does not diminish who you are or what you are called to do. The sun will still come out tomorrow; the rain will fall again. Life goes on, and with each passing day we are that much closer to the end of our mission here on earth. Let’s not waste the precious time we have remaining wallowing in our pity or drunk in our elation. There is work to do and the night is coming. Forget about the election and be about your business as one of the elect (Romans 8:33). Love God, love people, and hate sin. Everything beyond that is just circumstance and details. The election is over. Now, on with our mission…