November 8 and the election is upon us. We have endured the roller coaster of campaigns for months and most of us are either emotionally worn out or have already checked out. By this moment in time what will be will be; the day after the election our nation will be preparing for a new starting lineup. We will make the best of it, however imperfect. We always have.
But our work as the Christian community is only beginning. Now is the time for us to gather together and reaffirm our unity as one people. The best way for us to do that is to lead by example, to demonstrate unity of spirit ourselves. Emotions are contagious. What can we share that will be leaven in the lump to the larger society around us?
For one we can share unity language rather than the language of dissension. We've already had more than enough of that. Now a new rhetoric is needful: We are one people and we will find our way forward. We will be about steering the course through all this complexity and change. We will stand on guiding principles. We will work together. We will trust God to help us.
At Sunday morning services before the election, November 6, and a prayer vigil for the nation on election eve, Monday, November 7 at 7pm, we will share a most graceful prayer for the nation and I share it with you now:
Almighty God,
You have given us this good land as our heritage.
Make us always remember your generosity
and constantly do your will.
Bless our land with honest industry,
truthful education,
and an honorable way of life.
Save us from violence, discord, and confusion;
from pride and arrogance
and from every evil course of action.
Make us who came from many nations
with many different language
a united people.
Defend our liberties and give those
whom we have entrusted with the authority of government
the spirit of wisdom,
that there might be justice and peace in our land.
When times are prosperous, let our hearts be thankful;
and, in troubled times, do not let our trust in you fail.
We ask all this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
(Lutheran Book of Worship)
