In retrospect: thoughts following a big election

It has been interesting to read and hear the various comments of people regarding the conclusion of the presidential election, particularly from Christians. They have ranged from outright anger from those who had  high hopes for "real change" to a yawning antipathy from those who seemingly divorce Christian commitment from earthly responsibility. As I have considered what good could come from the election results (I still believe Romans 8:28) in terms of those who profess to be Christians, I would like to offer five things that may be beneficial to Christians as we continue to slide into a secular society. Of course, these are not exhaustive.

First, perhaps the election results will realign our priorities toward evangelism. It seems that the numbers of people who voted pales in comparison to 2008, and are significantly lower than what was expected for such a hotly contested presidential race. The early number indicate that there were approximately 14 million fewer votes cast this year than four years ago. This seems to indicate that, although the philosophical divide within our country is growing ever wider, the desire to act according to one's convictions is growing more shallow. Many people, including professed Christ, are willing to cling fervently to their most cherished convictions, unless those convictions become unpopular. 

Overshadowed by the presidential election, many have missed that two states, Colorado and Washington, legalized the recreational use of marijuana. Further, two additional states legalized homosexual marriage, bringing the total to nine states which now allow gay marriage. 

As this country continues to grow in her division and her actions betray her foundations, churches must once again evangelize in such a manner where convictions are manifested in actions. Confessing Christianity without living Christianity should no longer be an option for churches, as it has never been an option in Scripture. By the increasingly secularized society that is overtaking traditional American values, evangelism must call people, not to only responsible living, but to sacrificial dying. 

Second, perhaps the election results will renew our dependence on prayer. There have been many who have lamented the perception that evangelicals were sold out to the Republican party. Petitions have been signed, donations have been sought, and rallies have been organized. All in an attempt to swing the country to the political right. 

Yet as the gap between country and Christian continues to grow, some Christians may be tempted to turn toward political methods as the primary sustenance of a country instead of praying for God to bring revival through the consistent and disciplined preaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

With the ever-shrinking influence of "Evangelicalism" comes an ever-growing need for prayer. Perhaps the continued drift of a nation into secularization will be the alarm for, not more petitions, rallies, or boycotts, but more prayer. 

Third, reflection upon the election should reorient the locus of where we place our faith. Our faith dare not lie at the feet of a political party or economic philosophy, for they shall be tried and found wanting. Neither should our faith be placed in the American spirit nor the humanity of a nation. For the believer, faith belongs only at the Cross of a crucified carpenter who punched a hole in a sealed tomb because the grave could not hold him. 

Fourth, perhaps the election results will reinvigorate us to preach the Gospel without wavering. As we continue to see the erosion of true religious liberty in favor of a state sponsored worship of self, the Gospel of Jesus Christ will grow ever more unpopular. May we regain the fervor of the ancient church to stand and say "we cannot help but speak of what we have seen and heard" (Acts 4:20).   

Finally, I would hope that the results of this election would summon Christians to remember once again that our citizenship is in Heaven. The kingdoms of this world will ebb and flow with the whims of fallen humanities' passion, desire, and pride. In fact, they will laugh in derision at those who speak of another Kingdom (Psalm 2). But when the kingdom's of this world fully give way to the Kingdom of our Lord and His Christ then there will be a great number who will realize that their allegiance has been to kings with clay feet.

Yet, upon that determined Day, the feet of clay will crumble beneath the weight of judgment bringing every person to their knees. The mouths that once laughed in derision will utter in confession "Jesus Christ is Lord."