What has changed? 

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

They collapse and fall, but we rise and stand upright.

Psalm 20.7 & 8

Well the election is over. Most of you who will read this will be disappointed in the results. I am. I think there is good reason to be anxious. There are those for whom life will become harder. For this I have no doubt. 

            For me, the biggest concern are those of us who claim a citizenship in the Kingdom of God thinking that a man, or a woman for that matter, elected to any office would be God’s appointment. While Paul tells us to not resist our authorities, this should not be construed that God has chosen that person. What God has appointed is the idea of governance.  The authority at that time was the Roman Empire. Their brutality was remarkable. In the same passage in Romans (13.1-7), he also writes, “For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad.” Although God has appointed the authority of governments, our obedience, our allegiance is to God and his Kingdom.

So what has changed?

In reality, nothing. Life may become easier for some, more difficult for others, and more dangerous for others. Yet, nothing stands in my way of what is important. Nothing stops me from acting in love towards my neighbours. Nothing.

            A few days ago, I posted a comment:

“As the world fights to figure everything out. I’ll be holding doors for strangers, letting people cut in front of me in traffic, keeping babies entertained in grocery lines, stopping to talk to someone who is lonely, tipping generously, sharing food, giving children a thumbs-up, being patient with sales clerks, smiling at passersby. WHY? Because I will not stand to live in a world where love is invisible.

            Be kind to a stranger, give grace to people who may be having a bad day, be forgiving with yourself. If you can’t find kindness, BE kindness.”

          

Nothing has changed. In fact, if anything the need for me to be kind and loving has become even more important. But nothing has changed in what I am to do in the world.

            We can, and must, still speak up for those who are considered the least. Going Old Testament, I can, “Do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause.” Isa 1.17 This is beyond politics. 

Anyway, that is my opinion.