More to Life Than This

In the aftermath of Tuesday’s election, there are people who are very happy and others who are sad or angry.

After months of endless campaigning, all the votes have been counted. There are winners. And there are losers.

I was introduced to the love of politics at a young age. Politics are fascinating and exciting. I know what it’s like to feel happy when someone wins and sad when someone loses. (This morning I’m feeling a bit of both.)

As we put the 2014 midterms behind us, I’d like to share three things. First, no matter who wins, no matter if you are a Democrat or a Republican, remember to pray for those that won. They are going to need a lot of prayers as they deal with challenging issues. Second, let us realize that no matter if one party controls the Senate, our ultimate allegiance is to God, not the Republican or Democratic parties.

Finally, let’s treat each other with kindness and love. Let’s not gloat if our side wins and let us not be bitter if our side loses. Let’s love our friends even if they don’t vote your way.

Elections are important to the functioning of a democracy, but remember that it is not the ultimate thing to think about. Remember that we are children of God and that means your conservative uncle and free-spirit aunt are both loved by God.

And now that the midterms are done we can start thinking about more important things: like the 2016 General Election (tounge firming placed in cheek).

Dennis Sanders is the pastor of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of St. Paul located in Mahtomedi. This article first appeared on the church website.