November 2, 2020
Politicians: No Substitute for a Savior
In an era of United States history characterized by political divisiveness, social injustice, and a global pandemic, I find solace talking with God about His will and role for me amid the chaos. As we approach the most divisive election in recent memory, I’ve been encouraged and redirected constructively when I consider God’s perspective on the situation and look for opportunities to serve Him in this time.
The character trait on which I’ve been focused is humility, and the specific skill I’m working to improve is my listening.
Humility is placing the needs of others above yourself. It’s the opposite of pride and selfishness and requires empathy - the ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes and truly feel their pain. Our model for humility is Jesus Christ, Who although perfect, gave Himself for the redemption of all who believe in Him (Phil. 2:3-11). I struggle to imagine this level of sacrificial love, much less actually apply it, particularly when facing something or someone who may have wronged me! I am reminded of divine love (1 Cor. 13:1-8a), which I can only approach as God works within me.
To be empathetic, one must first listen, and God encourages us to do so swiftly (James 1:19). So much noise exists in our culture, and I fear we are losing our ability to listen. We must be able to listen to our brothers and sisters in Christ, empathize, and react in humility even when we disagree. As members of the body of Christ, we are much more similar than different. We must humbly lean into difficult conversations and truly listen! The body of Christ is beautifully diverse, and we need each other to keep from pridefully going off the rails.
“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” - Ephesians 6:12, NASB
Regardless of election results this fall, my salvation is in Christ.
In Christ,
Dr. Jeff Marx
Head of School
