A few hours after I was proudly wearing the “I voted” sticker, I was deeply concerned that what I was hoping for this year’s election would not come true. The results on the website did not look too good and i went to sleep knowing that I had to face the reality when I woke up in the morning. The next morning came and I had to swallow the sad defeat. Although I was not too shocked by the expected presidential voting results, what followed the big announcement. When I was casting my ballots at the voting center I had to vote for so many questions including the same-sex marriage and expansion of casinos in the state of MD that will bring table games into the state. These two issues really had me thinking about the negative consequences that will directly affect so many families and young people.
In all honesty, I am not an expert in politics nor fully understand its policies but one thing I know for sure is that people in the office and what they believe in will make a huge impact on this country. “The Best is Yet to Come!”, president Obama told his supporters as he was confirmed as president for a second term. As much as I wanted to believe in what he was saying, my heart was very heavy because I did not see the “best” coming out of questions 6 (same sex marriage) & 7 (casino expansion). I had a friend in college who once shared about her father’s gambling problems that was causing the whole family to suffer. People probably voted for the casino expansion hoping to create more jobs to boost the economy into a positive direction, but I am very concerned about the potential addictions and divisions in many families due to gambling issues.
Likewise, the same sex marriage issue is something that many young people will be affected by for years to come. There will come a day when I have to explain these things to my own kids when they raise their eyebrows and ask why their friends have two fathers or two mothers. Non Christians and perhaps some of our own church members will consider me as being old fashioned, non-loving and narrow minded. But what can I say? My values and life standards come from what God says in the bible.
“We live in a culture that considers the principles of Scripture outdated and narrow minded. The bible is viewed merely as a piece of literature, and civilized culture has grown past the need for such a book. Some say it provides a basic framework for being a good person, but to consider it the source of truth and a plan for living seems naive.” <Josiah Road by Luke & Harold Harper>
How do you view the word of God? Apostle Paul wrote in Heb 4:12, the word of God is living and active....it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. And through the Bible we learn that we will not be conformed to this world and its standards by renewing of our minds. (Rom 12:2)
In conclusion, I believe that God is still in charge as He always has been and always will be. Therefore I put my trust in Him for He is the only hope and the one who can bring the “Best”. I just pray and hope that the leaders of this country and leaders around the world will humble themselves and seek God with all their heart, soul and strength. Lord, let Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.

From Pastor Brian’s Heart
November 11, 2012

 It is hard to believe that in about three days we will know who will occupy the White House for the next four years.  I hope everyone who is eligible to vote has already cast their vote or is definitely planning to do so on Tuesday.  Who should you vote for as the next president of the US?  If you haven’t made up your mind yet, you should definitely vote for my candidate, the candidate of God’s choice! 
With all kidding aside, I hope everyone prayerfully seeks God’s guidance in selecting the next president.  I happen to live in the “swing” state of Virginia, where one vote is likely to make a difference one way or another on the outcome. However, many states – including Maryland – historically lean heavily one way, making voters of the opposing party feel as if their votes will not make any difference.
Often times we feel insignificant and unable to make a difference whether it is at home, at school, at work, or at church. “What can I do?  I am just one person,” is often the excuse we use to avoid getting involved with a cause that we feel strongly about. In times like those I remind myself of the Genesis account of Abraham pleading to God to spare Sodom and Gomorrah from destruction. Ultimately the two cities are destroyed completely by fire and brimstone because not even ten righteous men could be found in these cities of tens of thousands of people.  Am I saying that ten extra people showing up to vote will definitely make a difference in this presidential election?  No, although that is possible.  What is important to keep in mind, however, is to never underestimate the power of one - one idea, one vote, or one conviction.  No matter how impossible the odds seem, we who have been called to be the salt and light of the world should continue to “expect great things from God and attempt great things for God” as William Carey did.
Just as heated as the presidential election itself, seems to be the fight over what is known as “Question 7” on Maryland ballots.  I do not know all the details, but basically it is a vote on whether to make gambling more accessible to Marylanders and nearby residents. The plan includes building a new video lottery facility in PG County, increasing the number of lottery machines, and allowing video lottery facilities to operate 24/7. People with good intentions on both sides of the issue argue why voting for or against Question 7 will benefit the residents of Maryland.  The proponents say the proceeds from the expanded gambling industry will benefit the public schools while the opponents say it will further ruin the lives of those who are already susceptible to gambling. 
I am sure this is a complex issue with multiple dimensions, and I have not formed my opinion based on thorough research.  However, my gut instinct is against Question 7.  Why?  Simply put, I do not believe “the end justifies the means.”  When King Saul defeated the Amalekites in 1 Samuel, he spared the best of the sheep and cattle to sacrifice to the LORD despite God’s command to destroy everything.  King Saul’s intention might have been honorable, but he disobeyed God in the process.  So my beloved MD church family members, regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum, pray hard for God’s perfect will to be done for the nation and for your state. But do your part; go vote. 

From Pastor Sara’s Heart
November 4, 2012