Note: Although women from around the world are a part of pastorswives.org, the U.S. election has received more international attention this year than in year's past. I encourage pastors' wives from around the world to take the main point of this blog entry and apply it to their own unique situations.If you're like me, you're probably relieved this election will be over with today. Tensions are high these days; and political leanings have, at times, strained relationships. So now that it's over (or almost over anyway); what now?
For some politicians, they'll probably already be planning their strategy for next election. But what about us? Certainly, we'll be
praying for whomever is elected. While that is extremely important, we don't have to stop there.
Many Christians have causes that are near and dear to their hearts. For some, it's preventing more abortions. For others, it's caring for the poor. And for still others, it's a combination "pro-life ethic" that has been gaining popularity in recent years. I have also seen Christians embrace issues such as caring for God's creation, and opposing ideas that trap others in self-destructive lifestyles. Whatever your passion, I encourage you to look to God for help, and resist the urge to rely on fallible politicians.
Now that you've voted, I'd like to issue a challenge: ponder and pray about what else you can do to help the cause that is so dear to your heart. Are you pro-life? Please consider donating to and volunteering at a pregnancy center, as well as adopting a child whose life might otherwise be in jeapordy. Concerned about the poor? Give your time, money, and talents to help those who need it. Concerned about creation? Lead by example and get your church involved in creation stewardship as well. Concerned about moral values? Be the church everywhere you go. Get involved in your community and in the lives of those around you. Shine the light of Christ wherever you go. Help people transform their lives. And above all,
pray! God cares for His people more than you do.
Maybe you already donate and/or volunteer -- wonderful! I encourage you to do more and to recruit others. Maybe you're already involved -- fantastic! But never rest on your coattails -- always be in communication with God and ask Him to reveal more opportunities for you and your church.
What if all the money that has been spent on political campaigns through the years -- both successful ones and unsuccessful ones, were instead used to fund the very causes the various candidates are pledging to support? What if all the hours spent campaigning and/or lobbying for favorite candidates were spent volunteering for these causes instead? How many of these problems would be solved by now? How many other problems would at least be much less of a problem?
Some friends of ours began
The Mercy Foundation several years ago. They had a vision of creating a "city of refuge", and have already begun reaching out to and providing for the needs of single moms, as well as providing work education and literacy training to those getting out of prison (to name a few things). They are also working towards getting a free medical clinic going and perhaps even a free hospital. Overseas, they are in the process of building an orphanage in Kenya.
If Christians really banded together, we could change the world with God's help. God would get the glory, and the politicians could sit their dumbfounded. Let's do it!
"... that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God..." (1 Peter 2:12, NIV)
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For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." (Ephesians 2:10, NIV)Posted by: Moose
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Useful Links (please feel free to post your own in the comments section):
How to Start a Pregnancy Care Center -- a checklist from the North American Mission Board
The House that Hope Built -- a story of how two women put together a ministry with God's help and guidance.
Please comment and share your own links and ideas of how Christians can get involved in the causes they hold dear.
Comments (1)
God has allowed me to move around a bit and there is nowhere I have been where I didn't feel God could use me. I hope your bit of encouragement hits home with many.