What Would Jesus Vote? 4

Mark 12:28-31

The current presidential race will be one of the most significant in history because we will undoubtedly elect either the first African-American president or the first female vice president of our nation. Information, news, and analysis of the candidates are everywhere and the campaigns are a topic of many discussions and conversations. Most pundits clearly favor one party or the other, and I have found that when I hear or read criticism of the candidate I prefer I grow a bit agitated.

But ultimately, regardless of which party we favor, which candidates we endorse or plan to vote for, we must remember the profound teaching of Jesus. What question does the teacher ask? Which is the most important commandment? Which is second?

Now, the question is to us – how does this teaching apply to our political views?

We may believe that one candidate is better for our country than the other. We may feel strongly that choosing the opponent will be detrimental to our nation and our society. And we may have such passion for this election that our tempers may flare up, our voices may rise in irritation, and our endorsement of one person over another may cause us to think poorly of those who disagree.

But Jesus himself tells us that the most important commandment for us to adhere to is to love the Lord our God with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength. We are called to be devoted to God, and being devoted to God requires that we live lives of mercy and love, peace and self-control. The decisions made in the voting booth should be guided by our desire to be obedient and faithful children to our heavenly Father.

And with that follows the second commandment – love our neighbors in the same way and as much as we love ourselves. In spite of our passions about the election we must remember to be loving and merciful to those around us, even those with whom we disagree.

If our political process causes division and animosity between people and causes strife among the faithful, then we all lose. If, however, we can make decisions about our government with the motivation of serving God and with a heart that is loving toward those who differ, then regardless of the outcome, we will have done the right thing.

DAILY CHALLENGE: How can you love your neighbor when your neighbor votes differently than you?