politics | Central States Synod

Preparing for the Election as People of Faith

In the church, we hear the truth of the gospel which calls us to live together as God’s people. What then is our call as people of faith given the reality of the partisan and divisive political campaigns surrounding us and the truth of God’s word embodied in Jesus? Do we ignore the rhetoric, withdraw, and keep our faith and “politics” separate? Or do we prepare for the election by traveling the way of Jesus, knowing we are united with Christ and called to participate in God’s reign of justice?

Those are the questions we will address together as we prepare for and participate in the upcoming election as followers of Jesus. Leading up to the election, we share these reflections based upon Scripture and the ELCA Social Statement draft of Civic Life and Faith. We invite people to pray, knowing that prayer opens our hearts and minds to listen to God and see the image of God in others. And we challenge one another to speak and share our perspectives in ways that enhance the conversation rather than tear down others.

Pray then in this way:

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

GOD DESIRES SHALOM FOR ALL CREATION

AUGUST 28

When you think about the theme – God Desires Shalom for All Creation – what Scripture passages come to mind? Below are two that immediately came to mind for me and on which I am basing my reflection as we, as people of faith, prepare ourselves for the upcoming election.

WE ARE CO-CREATORS WITH GOD FOR SHALOM

SEPTEMBER 11

Hopefully, we have all learned along the way that “dominion” does not mean God has simply turned creation over to us to do whatever we wish for our own desire. Rather God has entrusted us as stewards to care for God’s creation.

GOVERNMENT IS A GIFT FROM GOD

SEPTEMBER 25

Think about the many gifts that God gives, giving thanks for the many, varied, and incredible ways God has and continues to bless us. As you list those gifts in your mind, is “government” on the list?

WE ARE CALLED TO BE STEWARDS

OCTOBER 9

Do people still hear that word in terms of the church asking for money? How much money will you commit to giving to the church in the next year? How will you volunteer your “time and talents” to do the work of the church?