FROM THE PULPIT: WHOM TO ELECT?

America is about to elect a new president. Of course, this is not news to most of us, because campaigning has becoming almost a perpetual activity among politicians.

For many, nothing is done in the position they hold without an eye toward the next election. Nonetheless, it is big news, because we are assured of a new face in the White House. Hopes are high on all sides as each party hopes to-advance its agenda in the American political landscape. The world is interested, because whoever leads ' America profoundly affects our foreign policy (which often translates to, "How much money will America give us?").

Fear motivates some people to vote a certain way, fear of What a certain candidate will do if elected. Greed motivates some; We are often afraid of some material benefit we may lose if a certain candidate or party is elected. others seek to promote reform, and hail their candidate as the best to bring meaningful change about. Before the election, uncertainty and division abound.

We have one leader in the Kingdom of God. There is but one head in the Church, and He is not up for re-election. It doesn't matter who is or isn't in favor, the Lord Jesus Christ is King. "I have i nstalled my king on Zion, my holy hill," said the Lord. (Psalm2:6) "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no one comes to the Father except through Me," Jesus declared.(John 14:6) According to the Bible, Jesus Christ, who died; was resurrected from the dead, and ascended into heaven will return to earth at the last day to gather all believers unto himself, and consummate the kingdom of God for eternity.

Yet there is no need to fear. "God is light, and there is no darkness in Him at all." (1 John 1:5) "God is love.9! John 4:8) For He (God) has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom, of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." (Colossians 1:13-14) "Come unto me, all you who labor and are heavily burdened, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28) We can expect love, kindness, andnothing but goodness from our king.

Certainly, there are serious problems that are addressed in the political realm Yet none of these can take away peace of mind and soul , and joy that we experience when Jesus is Lord of our lives. "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." (John 14:27) The Lord is on-my side: I will not fear, what can anyone do to me?" (Psalm 118:6)

Let us fulfill our responsibility to vote and to be involved in our American self-government. But let us also remember that in Christ, we have "everything we need for life and godliness," (2 Peter 1:3). Let us never worry, for our God is our heavenly father who seeks our well-being in every way.

Editor's Note: The Pastor's Corner column is generally shared by area pastors John Kiehl, Drew Dietz and Grant Gilliard (although it is open to any area ministers). Columns are usually run in the order received.

Rev. Kiehl's column that appears here was received in time for the Nov. 5 issue. Drew Dietz's column had already been prepared for that issue, however, and this one was put back in the basket. The editor did not realize it contained an election message or the order of the two columns would have been reversed.

On the other hand, who says the election will be over any time soon?