As we take the time to reflect on the recent election, let’s do our best, as followers of Christ, to react in a Godly manner. For those who are elated over the outcome, remember Proverbs 24:17  “Do not gloat when your enemy falls, when he stumbles, do not rejoice” We need to “be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another, in love. Making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:2-3)

For those of an opposing political view, the council of Paul to the church at Corinth seems appropriate “Sorrowful, yet always rejoicing” (2nd Corinthians 6:10) Also his command in his first letter to the Thessalonian’s 5:16-18 “Be joyful always; pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus”. Let us all remember Romans 8:28 “…that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

He will use this political outcome to conform us more to the image of Christ. So let us pray for one another and realize that God uses all things – the good, the bad, and yes, even those things, which some believers feel, are good, while others, who love the Lord, feel are bad. In the Epistle of James chapter 1 verse 22 God inspired the writing “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” We should all take that to heart and live as 1st Thessalonian’s 5:13 says “In peace with one another”

President Kennedy expressed what reminds me of that verse in James. “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them” This is true in all situations, but was said in reference to Veterans Day, which we celebrated this past Friday. For those who served this country we also, as President Kennedy exclaimed, wish to honor our veterans, not only with words, but with the lives we live, in this country, borne from the desire to live in the freedom our constitution grants. We thank all veterans for giving themselves in service to this goal, not only in attaining, but in also keeping this nation free, knowing that alongside freedom lies responsibility. May the Lord Jesus, through his Spirit grant us the grace and courage to uphold that responsibility.

Rev. Larry Sassmann Assistant Pastor