In response to what has been an overwhelming display of disrespect and despair by many in the public square (Facebook in particular) I hope to share some thoughts that may help us move forward and together. My reflections speak particularly to the followers of Jesus Christ who are to live as members of the Kingdom of God.
As followers of Christ, where there is no conflict with God's law, obey the laws of the state. Consider Paul's words to the church in Rome living under a pagan emperor.
Romans 13:1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. 2 Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. 4 For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. 5 Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. 6 This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
So long as no one in leadership is requiring that we abandon the mission of making disciples of Jesus, let us pray for our leaders and willingly submit to their authority.
Show respect. Give honor.
When we disrespect our leaders, we model for our children and others a pattern of rebellion that will not be blessed by God. This is true of how we show respect not only for our President, but our bosses, teachers, and local officials.
In Mitt Romney's concession speech last night he said this, "We look to our pastors, priests and rabbis and counselors of all kinds to testify of the enduring principles upon which our society is built: honest, charity, integrity, and family. We look to parents, for in the final analysis everything depends on the success of our homes."
Moving forward, we pray for and show respect to our leaders. Love God most and love your neighbor. May God grant that our leaders have a heart to serve. Until it is time to vote again, let's get back to work. Let's get back to faith, hope, and love. And the greatest of these is love.
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