Well, I think it’s okay to say that “my guy” didn’t win the presidential election yesterday, but I have a couple quick thoughts to share on this historic occasion.
First, it was a privilege for me to vote this week. I know it’s only one vote among millions, but you know, my one vote counted exactly the same as all the other one-votes out there. In this remarkable, wonderful country, my vote is no less powerful than that of Bill Gates, General David Patraeus, Oprah Winfrey, Rush Limbaugh or even Barack Obama.
Second, I believe it is my godly duty to show respect for our new president. I don’t mean to step on anyone’s toes here, but I found it offensive and distasteful to see slogans like “Not My President” referring to George W. Bush. Likewise, back in the 90’s I was surprised by some of the rude jokes and comments about Bill Clinton coming from normally gracious Christian friends. The Bible says in
Romans 13:1-7,
“There is no authority except that which God has established…the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe…respect, then respect; if honor, then honor” (see full passage below). So, however strongly I may disagree with Mr. Obama politically or philosophically, I believe God will be most honored if I refrain from speaking crudely or disrespectfully about him. And honoring God is what my life is all about.
Okay, that’s my two cents worth. And if you are a McCain supporter who is now feeling despondent and despairing, I am happy to tell you that Dewey’s November 2nd sermon about peace
is now online and ready to encourage you! If you missed last Sunday, I
highly encourage you to listen to this message from Philippians 4:4-9 (and even if you were here, maybe you could benefit from hearing it again)!
Here is God’s Word to us:
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor. --Romans 13:1-7 (see also 1 Peter 2:13-17)
