Some choices are easier than others. Some decisions bear more weight than others. Some choices have greater consequences than others. Wouldn't it be nice if life were less complicated?
Contrary to popular opinion, many of life's choices throughout human history have been significant -- to eat the forbidden fruit or not? To get on the ark or not?
Never before, in my nearly 40 years of ministry, have so many people asked me for pastoral advice regarding what they see as an impossible choice in this year's presidential election. These are good-hearted, God-loving, patriotic Americans I'm talking about. Most of them vote in every election and take their civic responsibility very seriously. They are, to say the least, unhappy about their choices.
What does this pastor tell them? First of all, I tell them that very few people I've talked to feel good about their choices this year. During the primaries we had more choices in candidates, so it was more likely we actually liked one of them and wouldn't be embarrassed to tell people why we liked them. Now, because of the way the system works, we're down to basically two viable choices and may not like either one. That's just the way it is.
I tell them to thank God we still have a choice at all. There are people on the planet who have nothing to say about who is in charge of their lives. Be thankful for the right and privilege of voting. Use it or lose it.
Not voting is technically a choice, but it is also saying, "I am giving up my right and responsibility to make a thoughtful choice in this election. I'm fine letting others have control over who wins and what the impact will be on my life and perhaps the lives of my children and grandchildren. And I'm giving up my right to say anything about it after the election."
And I tell them that it is most important to consider the choices between the visions for America of the two candidates and their parties. What kind of long-lasting impact might the election have on the Supreme Court, federal courts, etc.? Voting for president of the United States is not a high school popularity contest. If it were, this year it's likely neither Hillary Clinton nor Donald Trump would win on the basis of being "liked." Neither candidate has a very high "likeability" rating. So, look at what they say they stand for and against. Which vision is more in keeping with America's long-standing ideals and its historic role as the nation that leads and stands alongside those fighting terror and tyranny, those fighting for freedom. Whose vision is the kind of vision for America that God could bless?
Apathy, excuses and complaining about our choices is something He will not bless. I have to choose. I've made my choice. I pray it is the choice God ultimately blesses. And that's really what America desperately needs most -- God's blessing.
Humble yourself. Seek His face. Ask His Spirit to guide your decision making. And then trust Him to do what only He can do: to heal our land and bless America to be great again in His sight.
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Mark Voll is pastor of the Village Bible Evangelical Free Church. The opinions expressed are those of the author.
Religion on 10/26/2016