Americans have watched stunned as the security of our national capitol was breached and protestors forcefully entered. In our lifetimes–no matter how old you are–none of us have seen anything but a peaceful transition of political leadership. Until today.
Where is hope to be found at this time? How should the church respond?
Reverend Sam Buice of Grace Calvary Episcopal Church in Clarkesville shared that he had talked to several local clergy who were trying to figure out what they would say to their congregations on Sunday. Buice stated, “One thing we’re sure of is that all creation is straining right now, waiting to see what God is going to do next.” He then went on: “The people who lived through Good Friday didn’t know Easter was coming! While we may not know what will happen next, we do know that God is in charge.”
Dr. Craig Ward, pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Clarkesville, agreed with Reverend Buice’s assessment. “Whatever is said from the pulpit must be gospel-focused,” Ward explained. “Jesus IS our hope.”
For Ward, the message for Sunday should be about Matthew 12. “When asked what was the greatest commandment, Jesus simply said to love God with all your heart and to love your neighbor,” Ward explained. “I don’t mean to be too simple, but I feel like believers may need to get back to the simple–loving God and loving others. We all need to understand that neither political party is the epitome of righteousness.” Ward will challenge his church to be simple: “Love God, love others, and focus on what we ought to do best. Serve others. Pray for others. And be about sharing the Gospel. Our hope is not to be in government, but is on Jesus alone.”
