Today’s election—I think I can predict the outcome.
At least this: no matter who wins or loses, this election will not address the divisions in this country. On the contrary: this election—specifically the campaign leading up to it—has exacerbated the divisions to the breaking point.
On Saturday, I officiated at the funeral for a remarkably gracious, dignified, woman of 92 years. I quoted a Scripture that described her character: “…whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise…” and I asked rhetorically: “Has any of the recent campaign advertising lived up to those tests?” The answer is: virtually none. Precious few avoided slander, ridicule, outright lying. Most tried to make us frightened, angry, or suspicious.
Here’s what has become of public discourse:
Last week, a friend of my son painted a mural on the side of their small-town business, extolling diversity—hands raised, in black, brown, and white. No words; just images. By the end of the week, they were facing death threats. Think about that for a minute. Apparently, self-justified violence is the new normal.
Of course we should vote (Beth & I voted early). Especially since, because of the tired myth of election fraud, voting may become much more difficult for many of us after Tuesday. But there are no saviors on the ballot.
Still, as a person of faith, I remain hopeful. But not as much for the political process as for the courage of honorable people who will persist in speaking, listening, praying, and working for the sake of others, especially those without a voice in all the shouting around them.
