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