The Forgiven

Tomorrow is “Election Day” in this great country in which we were blessed to be born. This has proven to be a very raucous campaign season, and for that reason I think most of us will be glad for it to be ended. My greatest concern today is not so much on the outcome of the election, but on the aftermath. What we have discovered from this election process is that we are a nation that is greatly divided. Most of the political experts are predicting a very close count, which indicates that almost half of America is going to be disappointed with the election results, no matter which candidate wins.

The words of our Lord Jesus Christ come to mind, found in Matthew 12:25: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.” How do we move forward as one nation when we find ourselves divided on so many fronts? Can we find some common ground on which we can all unite? We all agree that our country is faced with serious problems that affect all of us in various ways. Our political leaders seem to keep the focus of attention on our differences, rather than working to bring the populace together. It is as if they thrive on discord and dissention. So, what will it take to break down the walls of economic, social, racial, and religious separation within our borders? Who, or what, will be the rallying point to draw our people to a unified front?

The answer to these questions is found in an old, familiar hymn. “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus’ Name. On Christ, the solid rock, I stand. All other ground in sinking sand. All other ground is seeking sand.” The only chance for this nation to work beyond the obstacles of unity that have become so apparent during this election process is for believers in Christ to lead the way. We already share a common hope, our faith in the saving power of Jesus. We need to be able to look past the hurtful barbs that have been exchanged in word, print, and electronic media between brothers and sisters in the faith family. We should set an example of forgiveness that reflects the truth that we are “the forgiven.”

Serving in love,

Bro. Jim