Vote

Today is one of those really important days in our culture. It's the day we get to choose who it is that governs us. For those of us who live in America, we are unique and privileged in that we get to do this. Most of our fellow humans don't have this opportunity.

But I think voting is more than an opportunity for those of us who call ourselves Christians. I think it's a responsibility.

This coming Sunday we're going to be looking at the following passage as to how it relates to our jobs, but it has something to say to us today as well.

Romans 13:1-7 Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. ² So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. ³ For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. ⁴ The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. ⁵ So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience.

⁶ Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid. They are serving God in what they do. ⁷ Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and government fees to those who collect them, and give respect and honor to those who are in authority.

I believe that one of the ways we submit to our governing authorities in our democratic culture is by casting our vote. And I know we're not suppose to add anything to the Scripture, and that it is all inspired by God, but I'd like to think that if Paul were writing this letter to us in America, not only would he tell us to pay our taxes, he would tell us to vote.

I really do believe our vote matters. So head on out to your local polling station and do what God has privileged you to do.