Election Day
"For an Election
"Almighty God, to whom we must account for all our powers and privileges: Guide the people of the United States in the election of a president and other officials and representatives; that, by faithful administration and wise laws, the rights of all may be protected and our nation be enabled to fulfill your purposes; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."—The Book of Common Prayer, p. 822.
It is hard not to think about the election today. I remember all those running for office, some of whom I know personally. I have looked through a small window to see what a noble sacrifice it has been for some of them—for their families, their bodies, their minds, their hearts, and their spirits.
It must be difficult for candidates to hold onto their core values throughout the entire experience. How hard it must be to stay truthful. We see this at every turn. We hear people saying things they did and will do after the election that we know did not happen and that they will never allow to happen.
That is a great price to pay, win, and lose your integrity. More than any other people, politicians may be susceptible to bribes from people with deep pockets who offer them money to support their programs or businesses. Winning becomes so expensive or essential that all other values go by the wayside. May this be a lesson for us all, as we are tempted to compromise to reach a goal.
While the polls are open, our Daughters of the King chapter will pray in St. Mark's chapel for those running for office. They all need our prayers. We thank them for their courage to stand up and try to make a difference in this world, often at significant risk.
We pray that we all will accept the election's results, as we will continue to pray for both the winners and the losers.
We also must pray that all elected to office can keep their core values and become the people they say they are and the people God created them to be.
While we are at it, let us pray the same prayer for ourselves.
Joanna. https://www.joannaseibert.com/