Election 2020: “Rejoice with Those Who Rejoice, Weep with Those Who Weep.”

As we await the certified results of our election, some of us may be “rejoicing” while others are “weeping”. Some of us are looking forward to a time of “healing of the nation”. While some of us are fearful, that despite talk of unity, a change in the administration could be divisive. For all of us, Saint Paul has a few words: “Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” (Romans 12:15)

As Christians, we are called to journey together, with all those around us, in unity of heart. It is always time to set aside political differences for the sake of love. These words from Saint Paul, this exhortation, are taken from a longer passage, in which we are told how—and commanded—to live as disciples and friends of Christ, no matter what we think of the election. This exhortation answers the question, in the wake of the election, “what am I to do?” Whether rejoicing or weeping, here is what we are called, by God’s grace, to do. In fact, from Romans 12:9-20, here are 20 things to do!

1. Let love be genuine.
2. Hate what is evil.
3. Hold fast to what is good.
4. Love one another with mutual affection; 
5. Outdo one another in showing honor.
6. Do not lag in zeal. 
7. Be ardent in spirit.
8. Serve the Lord. 
9. Rejoice in hope.
10. Be patient in suffering.
11. Persevere in prayer. 
12. Contribute to the needs of the saints.
13. Extend hospitality to strangers.
14. Bless those who persecute you. 
15. Rejoice with those who rejoice.
16. Weep with those who weep. 
17. Live in harmony with one another. 
18. Associate with the lowly.
19. Live peaceably with all (if it is possible, so far as it depends on you).
20. Overcome evil with good.

Consider choosing 3 or 4 of these and asking the Lord to help you to do them. In practicing them, all shall be well with our hearts…

Blessings to you, as we all seek to live the “free gift of God that is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord”. (Romans 6:23)

Yours gratefully,