There has been a great deal of anxiety and divisive behavior leading up to the inauguration of our nation’s forty-fifth president. Some of the actions and attitudes of people in leadership has been very puzzling, and I have been left wondering what kind of example we are leaving to our children.
Allow me to share with you three “goods” that stand the test of time:
- Good Manners
The winner of any election should not be an excuse for us to engage in bad behavior. Some people have responded to the election with harsh words, vandalism, and other unkind actions. Some of our congressional leaders are boycotting the inauguration. What kind of example does that set for our children? Remember the golden rule – Do to others as you would have them do to you. Adults should always model good manners – it is how our children learn to treat others. People are more often remembered for having good character than bad. - Good Practices
We should always pray for the leaders of our country. Even if you are the complete political opposite of someone in power, pray for him or her. Every person we meet is the creation of a holy God, and even if a politician is described in the worst kind of way, it does us well to lift him/her up in prayer. There is no greater thing we can do for our leaders. If we are worried about their behavior, a piece of legislation, anything they do – we can bring it before God! - Good Perspective
Years ago, someone at CTPC told me that getting riled about political matters over which I have very little control is pointless. I was taken aback when it was said to me, but it is true. Or, as the great theologian Kenny Rogers once sung, “You’ve got to know when to fold ‘em…” What’s more, we Christians must remember this: Our true home is heaven. It’s great to be patriotic, and we should all strive to be good citizens here and now. But this world is temporary. One day our Lord Jesus will return and will make all things new.
I know some of you don’t like the pastor talking about politics. The reality is, though, that our political life is not separate from our spiritual life. We are Christians 24/7. What I hope I am conveying here is that we should all, as Christians, be demonstrating behavior that transcends the political.
Blessings,
Pastor John
