INAUGURATION
Today’s news report says that about a dozen Democratic lawmakers are boycotting President-elect Trump’s inauguration next week. And I’m disappointed.
I’m not what’s called a “political person”. I don’t like the conflict, antagonism, search for hidden skeletons and the “spin” to ruin competitors. But I’m troubled that many are trying hard to ruin the incoming President before he has a chance. Scripture tells us we are to respect those in authority over us, and to pray for them. Yes, there are times we need to speak up and not go along with a policy or government decree that contradicts God’s law. But much of what is happening currently seems to me a rush for power that it is ripping our nation even further apart.
I don’t care who you voted for. Whether you’re Democrat or Republican won’t change my feelings for you. But I do get upset when persons on either side of the divide accuse those on the other of not caring about the poor, of being uninformed, or even of not being Christian, of getting skewed news. Face it, our news IS skewed–on both sides. And there are clearly different approaches to the challenges our nation faces. Scripture says that we who follow Jesus are to be known by our love for each other – despite our differences.
Our unity in Christ is more important than those areas where we disagree. Somehow we’ve allowed this election to override Jesus’ prayer that we would love each other. What has become more important? Our need to be “right”, on whichever side we choose to land? Or our love for each other, which is what God said would show the world that we are His children?
“I demand that you love each other, for you get enough hate from the world! But then, it hated me before it hated you.” John 15:17-18 (TLB)
Our country already has so much division. We need change in many areas: racial divides, justice for all, economic opportunity, help for the poor, and more. But it doesn’t help any of us to try to make the incoming, duly-elected leader fail. If he does, we ALL lose.
What if instead, we agreed to pray for Mr. Trump – for humility, for an open heart and mind, for wisdom and advisors who will provide trustworthy input into the decision-making process.
One word for your blog today. AWESOME. I agree with you. Prayer not protest. We can never know what God will do through Donald Trump. Let us wait on the Lord.
Karen, I so appreciate your encouragement. Yes, let’s wait on the Lord and not lean on our own understanding!
YES, Carol, YES! Thank you for addressing present concerns with biblical answers and directives. You provide a godly voice in the midst of evil times. May God bless you with continued strength and courage.
Ah, MarJean, thank you. Let’s agree to pray for this President and administration; and may God bless you with His peace and surround you with love.