A Post-Election Mandate

After months of campaigning and millions of dollars spent, the votes have been cast and counted, bringing to a close another election season. We have now entered into the period of reflection and response, with all of its analysis, opinions, and reactions. Obviously, the responses vary greatly, depending on which candidates and issues you voted for. Some are elated, while others are defeated; some are hopeful, while others are disappointed; some see a bright, sunny day ahead, while other believe the sky is falling. Then there are always those who, either through disinterest or disillusionment, have disconnected from the whole process and seem to go on their way completely unaffected by such matters.

Regardless of where you fall in this spectrum, there is one reaction that is necessary for the followers of Jesus, one response that should rise above all the others. Let's remember the words of Paul and Peter:

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. (I Timothy 2:1-2)

For the Lord's sake, respect all human authority - whether the king as head of state or the officials he has appointed. (I Peter 2:13-14a)

These words are not contingent on who we voted for or what party the candidate belongs to. We are not released from this response because we are disappointed in who was elected. There is no escape clause when we disagree with their decisions. This is to be the reaction of God's people - period. We pray and intercede for those in authority because it is the response of love and
grace. We will give respect to those in authority because we are called to reflect the character of Christ. In all things, we are to walk in grace, kindness, and mercy; in everything, we are to love and pray for others, wanting God's best for everyone. The words of Paul and Peter remind us that the realm of politics does not give us a free pass - we're still supposed to be like Jesus.

Throughout the election process, we have often appealed to the authority of Scripture in discussing and debating various social issues. May we remember that these words about respecting and praying for those in authority are just as inspired and authoritative as the passages we have quoted to others. We cannot be selective in our observation of Biblical values. Demonstrations of disrespect and a lack of love will do nothing but make all of our other arguments ring hollow. Whatever you might feel about the election and its outcome, there is one reaction that must rise to the surface: we will love, respect, and pray for others, whether we voted for them or not. The way of Jesus does not change, even in an election year.