The heart of the election season

This may be the most important election in our history. But then, that has been argued at least as far back as Abraham Lincoln’s race against McClellan. There are always major concerns for the future of our nation, whether it be from enemies foreign and domestic, education, the economy or the plethora of social issues which also take their place in American politics.

In recent years, there have been a number of issues which many Christians have found themselves battling: abortion, homosexual marriage, the Pledge of Allegiance, and even “in God we trust” as a national motto, complete with an accompanying poll which has been widely publicized, encouraging Christians to let their voices be heard.

Generally when I write on my blog, for this column or prepare for my talk show, it is with a specific goal of homeschool advocacy. I believe every citizen has a responsibility to be informed, be involved and to vote. But as the rhetoric heats up this election cycle and we begin to feel the gravity of the issues which will affect our futures, I would like to take a moment to step back and put some of the election back into perspective.

My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. –John 18:36 KJV

When I get frustrated with the trends I see in American culture and politics, I often look at this verse to remind myself of the “bigger picture” of God’s kingdom. It is not an earthly kingdom, but a spiritual one. It is not a kingdom advanced by the sword, but by faith. It is not a kingdom which is interested in the symbolic displays printed on our currency, but by what is written on the human heart.

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. –Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV

And how much less by the laws of man? Imagine for a moment that we as Americans got this election “right.” That all the right candidates were elected, all the right laws enacted, all the right policies pursued. Would a single soul be saved?

Our hearts and the life we live out before those around us are infinitely more important to the Kingdom of God than the political controversies we find ourselves engaged in. Certainly there is urgency in protecting our liberty as Americans, but their is a greater urgency in protecting our hearts from our own private sins. We must remember that we are a people not of this world, but in it and waiting like the anxious bride for her bridegroom to call her home.

Perhaps John Ortberg said it best in the conclusion to his article Non-prophet Preaching:

So we read about the issues. We debate. We learn about policy. We pray. We speak respectfully in the public square. We vote at elections. We serve on councils and cabinets. We preach about God’s concern for peace and justice and generosity and righteousness.

But we always remember: this is something we do while we’re waiting. (Leadership Summer 2008: 31.)

So act. Wait upon the Lord (Psalm 37:9). And remember that the battle has already been won. I know, because I’ve read to the end of the book.