As election time approaches, political hopefuls vigorously campaign. Citizens talk up their favorites and bash opponents via Facebook, Twitter, and other media. Hope and hatred blend in this season of anticipation and debate.
As I write this, conversants at a nearby table bombard me with such language:
“He’s so clueless…”
“Those stupid idiots…”
“I’m a Captain Spock guy.”
(The speaker mentioned an actual presidential candidate, not Spock. I changed the name to avoid supporting or disrespecting a particular candidate. I did learn through Facebook, however, that Spock apparently is running for office. I’ll let you do your own research on that.)
And today’s reading inserts an instructive message into our excitement. The end of Second Chronicles says Jerusalem’s fall is due to people’s refusal to listen to God’s speakers.
I’m not a fan of applying episodes from ancient cultures directly to our time and place in a way that assumes one nation superior to all others, but I believe leaders of governments can learn from such stories. I encourage voters to choose candidates who work for peace, justice, compassion, and other ideals close to God’s heart.
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