A Thought

“Restore us, O God of hosts; cause Your face to shine, and we shall be saved!”  Psalm 80:7

As a former political science major (what was I thinking??), I am still attracted to the political process.  I still believe very much in sound public policy as I believe it is our responsibility to carefully vet all political candidates for office regardless of their party affiliation, but we must not confuse our need for “leadership” between those who can only represent us (at best!) and the only One who can truly lead us where we need to go. 

Psalm 80 reads very much like the confession of a nation that has finally come to its senses and has come to realize that all which had been given and entrusted to the Israelite nation had been squandered by too many who had turned their backs on the Lord and maybe had put too much stock in “leaders” who are only a reflection of the people themselves.  All which the people of Israel had been given is beginning to crumble at the hands of other nations, and the protection of the Holy God has been removed from them because of their stubborn, independent streak!

It does not matter whom we support in this year’s election if we earnestly believe any one of these candidates can lead us to better days.  If we choose to follow any person with faith and with confidence, the only thing we can be sure of is that we will be led to the edge of the abyss; for they are as blind as we!  Vote responsibly, of course, and vote your conscience; but do not hand your faith over to those who are not worthy of anything less than our constant supervision.  They will not “save” us.

Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, You who lead Joseph like a flock … stir up Your strength, and come and save us!

Blessings,

Michael