Psalm 146:1-4

“Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help. When their breath departs, they return to the earth; on that very day their plans perish.” vss. 3-4

In the middle of a hard-fought election campaign it’s easy to get caught up in the drama and hyperbole of the contrasting candidates. Our passions are excited by the hyperbole, dualistic thinking paralyzes our brains, and we begin to think that everything depends on what happens at the polls. Obviously there are differences among those running for offices, and it’s very natural to develop strong preferences. Some will even be convinced that disaster is looming if the wrong person wins. Now it is true that every election has short-term consequences that can make huge differences in public policy, but it would be helpful for all voters to remember the words of the psalmist. “Do not put your trust in princes, in mortals, in whom there is no help. When their breath departs, they return to the earth; on that day their plans perish.” If we live long enough we can understand the truth of that scripture. In our country we’ve chosen some leaders who reeked with incompetence, and some who were spectacular. In every case, with the passage of time, we can scarcely remember their names. While it’s important to participate in elections in our democracy, our final trust is best reserved for the Lord and Giver of life, in whom all things have their beginnings and endings.

Thought for the Day: What passions is this campaign raising in me?