It is that time again. Every four years we find ourselves divided as a nation, surrounded by political ads, and anxious as we wait for election day. Peace be with you in this time. Walk away from the tv, phone, and computer when you need to. You don’t need to hold all of this by yourself. Self-care is even more important in times such as this.
This being said, it is important that we think critically and vote faithfully. I know I know – you are probably sick of hearing me say this and some are probably confused how I, a pastor, can get away with talking about politics. When it comes to preaching or any official writings (such as this newsletter article) I cannot and do not endorse a single candidate. I must, and do, remain nonpartisan in this area. I am also still a person that has my own personal life outside of the church (I know it’s a shock) and if you want to know where I stand, we can have a one-on-one conversation.
But why do I even talk about politics? Aren’t we taught that religion and politics must be completely separate and these are two of the taboo subjects to even talk about in ‘polite’ company? As people of faith, we should not be able to separate ourselves from our faith even in the political realm. Our faith ought to be a guiding force in all that we do and how we approach decisions in our life. This does not mean that we can or should force others to believe as we do, but we must vote in good conscience.
There is a recent draft of a social statement that a team of people with the ELCA have been working on. The social statement is on Civic Life and Faith. The very first article that they place in there is a reminder that Jesus taught: “your will be done on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread.” It is these words, they argue, that “teach us that God’s will seeks the well-being of creation and all aspects of human life, including civil society.”
Beloved – care for yourselves during this time but do not forget about your neighbors as you enter the polls this season.
Peace always,
Pastor Joseph Doegen
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