Where Do We Go From Here : Some Post Election Thoughts

  I think a good place to start is; for all of us to recognize, even those with whom we disagree politically, deserve to be heard , and to be represented in Washington. That coincides with the knowledge that those who we  think are ignoring an important moral precept or Biblical command, most likely think the same of  us.
  The Civil War documentary on PBS a few years ago focused on letters of soldiers and leaders. They prayed to the same God and revered the same holy book. Yet they came to make different stands on the issue of slavery.
  We often view politics and religion through the prism of  the culture, and beliefs we were exposed to in our youth. The views we find so repugnant and foreign, can be something the other believes to be perfectly rational or moral. This is not to say all views are morally equal. Just as one side was wrong and the other right in the slavery issue; many of the issues that are debated to day are not morally neutral. That being said, many of our differences are based upon what problems need the most emphasis and/or how to address them.
   Martin Luther is widely regarded as the father of Protestant Reformation. He was asked about the importance of the religious beliefs of the king. His answer was, " I would rather be ruled by a wise Turk than a foolish Christian". That insight could be applied in all directions. If you are an Atheist you are better off with a wise Christian than a foolish Atheist etc. I am a Christian and would like to have the best of both worlds. A wise Christian with a profound and thorough understanding of how to govern and Biblical precepts. The reason I have pursued this line of thought; is because too often I see the attitude; if a politician does not agree 100% with my views, they need to be subverted or ruined , certainly not prayed for. That mindset can be terribly detrimental to both your own and your nations interest. We often try to ruin a leader and  replace them with someone that may agree with an issue dear to us, but be totally unfit to govern. Until our Savior returns we will not be ruled in perfection.
   There are core values that need to be applied when choosing a candidate, I apply them myself.  Many people on both sides of the abortion issue use it as a litmus test for all candidates. When someone that does not share my views on an issue I think is very important, wins the election;  I do not view it as my responsibility to destroy them. I feel my obligation is; to take my views to the public square and convince my countrymen that my views have merit.
   It is much easier to slander and ridicule those you disagree with, than putting forth an argument that will change minds and elections. I doubt very much if any elected officials read my blog, but if  they did, I would tell them ........ Whether I voted for you or agree with you on every issue it does not matter..You have my heart felt prayers and best wishes. In the areas we disagree I will work fairly and honestly to change your mind and/or the voter's  perception of the issue..I will end with a quote from a famous theologian.... In the essentials charity, in the non essentials liberty.