I do not know when our church became a neighborhood voting precinct site. I know that the first presidential election in my time as pastor here was in 1976. Presidential elections draw large turnouts. We are preparing for the lines, providing more space for those with disabilities, and generally seeking to make the experience as comfortable as possible. Our neighbors are coming here to exercise the most far-reaching act of democracy the world has ever seen—casting their ballots freely, fairly, and privately. There have been additional statewide rules and procedures passed since last time, safeguarding the ballots from the time they are printed until handed to the voter. Additional protections follow the ballots from the ballot box at our church to the County Election Board. The entire voting process is staffed with trained citizens. Neighbors help neighbors, because voting matters.
From my perspective, this has been the most challenging election we have ever faced. I learned early in ministry not to publicly endorse any political candidate, not because my chosen candidate might lose, but because I have known many candidates to succumb to big money, criminality, and/or sexual corruption. I do not want to be found complicit by implication. I appreciate our people taking the political debates outside the ministries of our church. I have run for public office and have both won and lost. I am glad to talk personally and privately to anyone about my political views. I also have found most people really want to hear me say what they already believe, and not why I may look at things from a theological point of view. What is most important for us as citizens is that we vote. The greater the number of people casting their vote provides a clearer understanding of where we go next as a nation or local community. It is very easy to become cynical, discouraged, and disengaged from the process. Because so many citizens do not vote, we may one day discover we no longer have constitutional rights or free and fair elections. Your voting matters.
Keep healthy. Pray mightily. Enjoy your life today. Go vote. And let’s experience the love and power of God together.
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