Election Prediction:
Do I have an election prediction? Actually no (let me intensify this further), I have an election prophecy.
Now, let me immediately clarify. Biblically, the term prophecy only occasionally has to do with a 'divine prediction', however, it always has to do with a proclamation from God's heart toward people.
Tomorrow, British Columbians head to the polls for a provincial election. Are you ready for some election prophecies?
"I urge, then, first of all, that supplications, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth."
1 Timothy 2.1-4
"Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people."
Titus 3.1-2
"Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor."
1 Peter 2.13-17
So, what shall we do?
One: Pray
Two: Vote
Three: Set your hopes on the right thing. Let's understand that we are part of electing imperfect people to govern us (and we should therefore set our expectations appropriately) and that according to Jesus the thing we long for, are made for, and are to seek first is the Kingdom of God. For now, we will have very faulty human governance, but this doesn't mean we should abdicate our responsibility to do #1 & #2, Pray & Vote.
Four: Love one another and learn from one another. Every political party involved in this election will gain votes from people in a church as diverse as ours. If you happen to be in an environment where political conversation comes up, you might find yourself surprised to hear which political party others favor. Often we find ourselves surprised because we have assumed that many people see the political landscape just like we do and that our view is probably most godly or biblical. However, as we continue to love each other, even when we don't agree on all the same things, we have an opportunity to listen and learn how other views within our faith family are often rooted in godly and biblical thinking too. You may have heard that our neighbors to the South are also gearing up for an election This is another opportunity for us to love and learn - and to pray.
Let's pray a prayer right now that is far more important than politics and any election outcome. Let's pray this prayer that matters right now in seen and unseen realms here and everywhere.
"Father, may your Kingdom come and your will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven"
Amen.
Pastor Mike