Yes, I did. Both Sara and I voted for Barak Obama. I know that won’t sit easy with many of my evangelical friends. I’ve received scores of emails the last few days warning me that this election was pivotal for America and that God wanted McCain to win. One even sent me a dream he had of Obama plotting with Satan to destroy the United States.
I hate fear and all that it destroys in the human heart. People still don’t see how horribly binding it is and how it distorts us into really creepy people. Emails from Christian friends driven by fear and appealing to fear in hopes of conforming the culture to their expectations, sickened me. I know they are just misguided. I know God loves them deeply, and that they are responding the only way they know how. But it is time for God’s children to move beyond fear. This whole world is in HIS hands and we are his children living in it. We need not fear anything, because God’s kingdom is the unshakable one. His purpose will endure and we dare not look to the governments of men as our hope.
Even though I disagree with many of Obama’s social policies, the Republicans needed their comeuppance. I am a life-long Republican, and have never voted for a Democratic presidential candidate. But eight years of Republican arrogance and corruption in Washington has devastated this nation and destroyed our reputation abroad. How could I reward that with my vote? Are the Democrats any less arrogant or corrupt? Of course not!
But Obama sings a different tune. He speaks of hope and sacrifice, of bringing people together instead of manipulating our political differences to chop this country up into little pieces. To be honest, I’m ready for some sacrifice. My generation has saddled future generations with a horrible debt and an irresponsible, short-sighted, selfish approach to the problems of our world. It is time for a different course. Yes, I know when President Bush in his first campaign talked about being a “uniter not a divider”, he completely ignored his own promise. I can only Obama won’t do the same. I hope he’s serious about being a President for all of the people, even those who didn’t vote for him. I hope he brings diverse factions together and helps them learn to work together, rather than running headlong into a Democratic agenda. Time will tell.
This was a hard vote for me. McCain was my favorite Republican candidate from the beginning. I was surprised he won the nomination, but then even more shocked that he once nominated he became a mouthpiece for the worst elements in the Republican party. He quickly abandoned his life-long principles to appeal to the base of a party sadly out of touch with the demands of our time. I was disappointed by the lack of experience and gravitas in his vice presidential choice. I was disappointed in his negative ads that depended on rumor and innuendo. McCain has served this country well in days gone by. He didn’t do it so well in this campaign, except for his concession speech last night. That’s a McCain I could have voted for, even though I was disturbed by the mocking anger of those in his audience. He had to keep rebuking his own supporters who demonstrated such contempt for Obama. I hope that tells him something about the campaign he ran.
I know this won’t make sense to those who only focus on gay rights and abortion in voting for president. But I look at other issues that are being ignored to the detriment of our country. We need to build credibility abroad and make significant reforms at home. Obama offers us a fresh course and seems to display the intelligence, passion and fair-minded resolve to help us accomplish that. I do regret that he will serve with such overwhelming Democratic majorities in both houses. That doesn’t bode well for serving the interests of all of the people. But I’m rooting for him to get this right and demonstrate a generosity of spirit to those who don’t see the world the way he does.
And when I watched the faces of my African-American brothers and sisters last night overwhelmed at the election of one of their own to the highest office in the land, I was overwhelmed with gratitude. The greatest stain on our nation’s history is the white arrogance that first owned slaves for hundreds of years, then when freed kept them repressed economicaly, socially and politically for over a century and a half.
Sara and I just spent a week in Virginia visiting Thomas Jefferson’s home in Monticello and the historic colony of Williamsburg. To think that the man who penned our Declaration of Independence citing that “all men are created equal,” and then returned to his plantation in ownership of African men and women only shows the extent to which human blindness can reach.
What a moment in history! An African-American family will occupy the White House. So many said it couldn’t be done. And while it alone won’t make up for 400 years of abuse, it does open a very wide door of hope for those who have been most marginalized in our culture. How could we deny them this joy, this fulfillment that all men truly are created equal. I will pray that this reality further heals the despicable divide in our culture and allow us all to celebrate what we hold in common.
The stakes are high. The opportunity is great. I do pray that Obama will be blessed with wisdom and insight and that he will live up to his promise to not represent the narrow interest of party, but do work for a common good that offers equal justice for all.
On January 20, Barak Obama will take the oath of office, looking down the Mall past the Washington Monument to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial where Martin Luther King gave his famous “I Have a Dream Speech.” His election doesn’t fulfill all that King hoped for on that day, but it is a giant leap forward to fulfill a promise too long denied to people of color.
Some day I’ll be able to tell my grandchildren that I voted for the first African-American president of these United States, not because he was black but because he held the best promise to reverse the course of our failed politics and open a new chapter on American public life.
I pray he lives up to that promise. If he doesn’t, it really can’t be any worse than the last eight years.
So let me understand…You voted for Mr. Obama because he is black and your hope is that will erase 400 years of mistreatment? You don’t agree with all of his social programs but you “hope” it will be better than the arrogance and corruption you claim has gone on for the past 8 years? We need to get beyond his stance on abortion and gay rights? We needed to have the Republican party to get their “comeuppance”? Sarah Palin has too much “gravitas” yet not enough experience. Wow. You must have put a lot of thought into the story you told to try to justify what you really don’t condone. You talk of lack of experience of Mrs. Palin. What exactly does qualify for experience in Mr. Obama’s world? You talk of gravitas. Does Mr. Biden have that “affliction” as well? You talk of corruption. When you have a democrat controlled senate and house who are doing NOTHING for the past few years but blame Bush, how do you come up with corruption? Let’s talk about Mr. Reid and his land deals, let’s converse about Acorn and vote buying with our tax money. You are right though, it is about more than that. It is also about the judges that will be appointed FOR LIFE. It is about the political ties Mr. Obama has with terrorists and preachers and those are not rumors nor inuendos. I am glad your conscious is now clear and you can tell you did your part…you voted to elect an African American. I too pray for America. I too know that God is in control. I too know that Mr. Obama’s job will not be easy. I too know that the last 8 years did not go exactly as planned, but I refuse to vote for a “hope” that he can get this thing right when the voting history or experience of this man has never demonstrated that he could.
So you were willing to vote for O on a CHANCE there would be change (even though he has no experience, only schmooz), because the Republicans need a comeuppance? – that sounds like revenge to me. Not much love there. AMERICA is at stake here. Will you be pleased you voted for him when in 1- 4 years this country is socialist? Yes indeed it COULD be much worse than the last 8 years of prosperity.
i’m really glad you posted this. still i find it sad that many (and i only refer to my personal friends and loved ones not directing this to anyone who posted a response) are still convinced that God is American, or at least a “white middle class republican.”
personally/honestly i did not vote because i did not feel like i could support either with a clear conscience (while i did personally think Obama would have been a better option); i was not even sure God wanted me to make that decision. either way, i think much of the backlash only shows that our eyes are on the wrong person. it’s like the israelites begging samuel to appoint a king over israel like other nations…. does God still want to be our king? or President?
either way… we can trust Him. God is God in democratic America and communist China – while one may be better than the other, He is our Hope.
so in light of that… it definitely was a great day in America! God is good.
maybe i’m wrong, but that’s how i see it.
Geez, guys… does the fate of America really hang in the balance because of Wayne’s vote? He has more power than I gave him credit for! What else can you do, Wayne?
Anyways, is Obama really the enemy? If so, then I think following the teaching of Jesus would be wise: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Love and Pray… yes, for Obama.
Well said Wayne!
My hope is that some where along the journey we can learn mutual respect. It’s clear we have a long way to go in that department when it comes to political biases.
It’s also clear that many define “right” as only being their way and what they think. When will we ever see that we’ll never get it right nor likely ever be right completely. That’s why there’s this thing called grace which I sure hope extends into the political arena.
It seems to me that the bigger struggle we have is to get our collective act together on the “one nation under God,” part. What would happen in this country if we all tried to share Abba Fathers love with each other by being gracious? I think that’s where my focus is going to be regardless of party affiliation.
You hit a nerve Wayne… it seems the fear based religious right needs their novaMcCaine-laced pacifier. This is too difficult for them to chew on. I say that having voted for McCain after seriously considering Obama – basically for the reasons you described. And I ditto what you said, ArnieB.
Father, reveal your heart to your church!
1. no one implied HE is a “middle class white american”, neither am I
2. Wayne did what he did. It was his justification of his vote that was the issue….there are as many reasons on the other side.
3. NO, Obama is not the enemy, we fight against rulers, principalities and powers in high places.
4. absolutely pray for O.
5. AND yes, it is always a wonderful day in Jesus.
And I ditto Phil as well… didn’t see your post somehow until after!
I to, at age 44 voted for Obama and it was the first time I voted for a democrat since I became a christian at age 15.
My reasons are many, but it started with a change of heart and mind over the past 2 years. I see God working outside the box I used to keep Him in, I don’t identify with the american-christian-evangelical-mob mentality as I used to. I see many people being used by God with and without their conscious submission. I see ‘non-christians’ who are feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting widows, healing the sick, etc…Matthew 25…putting to shame many of us who say ‘Jesus is Lord’. A lot of people seem to know God, but maybe they don’t know His Name yet…there WILL be an introduction some day.
I studied Obama and I could identify with his brand of ‘christianity’ more than I could Palin’s or McCain’s. As for abortion…republicans have been in the white house 28 of the past 40 years since Roe vs Wade became law and well, maybe it is in their best interest NOT to reverse it…that way they have something to champion in furture elections. (Also, if we really believe life begins when an egg is fertilized, why aren’t we outraged by the number of babies discarded in the process of invitro fertilization (used by many evangelicals) which often requires that many eggs get fertilized while only ONE gets the chance at life? What happens to the unused eggs?
As for gay marriage…we all know God is the One who does the marrying…not the stae. As Obama said ‘marriage is between a man and woman and it is a religious institution’…civil unions are another matter.
So let me understand…You voted for Mr. Obama because he is black and your hope is that will erase 400 years of mistreatment? You don’t agree with all of his social programs but you “hope” it will be better than the arrogance and corruption you claim has gone on for the past 8 years? We need to get beyond his stance on abortion and gay rights? We needed to have the Republican party to get their “comeuppance”? Sarah Palin has too much “gravitas” yet not enough experience. Wow. You must have put a lot of thought into the story you told to try to justify what you really don’t condone. You talk of lack of experience of Mrs. Palin. What exactly does qualify for experience in Mr. Obama’s world? You talk of gravitas. Does Mr. Biden have that “affliction” as well? You talk of corruption. When you have a democrat controlled senate and house who are doing NOTHING for the past few years but blame Bush, how do you come up with corruption? Let’s talk about Mr. Reid and his land deals, let’s converse about Acorn and vote buying with our tax money. You are right though, it is about more than that. It is also about the judges that will be appointed FOR LIFE. It is about the political ties Mr. Obama has with terrorists and preachers and those are not rumors nor inuendos. I am glad your conscious is now clear and you can tell you did your part…you voted to elect an African American. I too pray for America. I too know that God is in control. I too know that Mr. Obama’s job will not be easy. I too know that the last 8 years did not go exactly as planned, but I refuse to vote for a “hope” that he can get this thing right when the voting history or experience of this man has never demonstrated that he could.
So you were willing to vote for O on a CHANCE there would be change (even though he has no experience, only schmooz), because the Republicans need a comeuppance? – that sounds like revenge to me. Not much love there. AMERICA is at stake here. Will you be pleased you voted for him when in 1- 4 years this country is socialist? Yes indeed it COULD be much worse than the last 8 years of prosperity.
i’m really glad you posted this. still i find it sad that many (and i only refer to my personal friends and loved ones not directing this to anyone who posted a response) are still convinced that God is American, or at least a “white middle class republican.”
personally/honestly i did not vote because i did not feel like i could support either with a clear conscience (while i did personally think Obama would have been a better option); i was not even sure God wanted me to make that decision. either way, i think much of the backlash only shows that our eyes are on the wrong person. it’s like the israelites begging samuel to appoint a king over israel like other nations…. does God still want to be our king? or President?
either way… we can trust Him. God is God in democratic America and communist China – while one may be better than the other, He is our Hope.
so in light of that… it definitely was a great day in America! God is good.
maybe i’m wrong, but that’s how i see it.
Geez, guys… does the fate of America really hang in the balance because of Wayne’s vote? He has more power than I gave him credit for! What else can you do, Wayne?
Anyways, is Obama really the enemy? If so, then I think following the teaching of Jesus would be wise: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Love and Pray… yes, for Obama.
Excellent post Wayne! I appreciated your rational comments and agree with many of them. Let’s hope this is a turn for the better in America and the world.
Well said Wayne!
My hope is that some where along the journey we can learn mutual respect. It’s clear we have a long way to go in that department when it comes to political biases.
It’s also clear that many define “right” as only being their way and what they think. When will we ever see that we’ll never get it right nor likely ever be right completely. That’s why there’s this thing called grace which I sure hope extends into the political arena.
It seems to me that the bigger struggle we have is to get our collective act together on the “one nation under God,” part. What would happen in this country if we all tried to share Abba Fathers love with each other by being gracious? I think that’s where my focus is going to be regardless of party affiliation.
You hit a nerve Wayne… it seems the fear based religious right needs their novaMcCaine-laced pacifier. This is too difficult for them to chew on. I say that having voted for McCain after seriously considering Obama – basically for the reasons you described. And I ditto what you said, ArnieB.
Father, reveal your heart to your church!
1. no one implied HE is a “middle class white american”, neither am I
2. Wayne did what he did. It was his justification of his vote that was the issue….there are as many reasons on the other side.
3. NO, Obama is not the enemy, we fight against rulers, principalities and powers in high places.
4. absolutely pray for O.
5. AND yes, it is always a wonderful day in Jesus.
And I ditto Phil as well… didn’t see your post somehow until after!
I to, at age 44 voted for Obama and it was the first time I voted for a democrat since I became a christian at age 15.
My reasons are many, but it started with a change of heart and mind over the past 2 years. I see God working outside the box I used to keep Him in, I don’t identify with the american-christian-evangelical-mob mentality as I used to. I see many people being used by God with and without their conscious submission. I see ‘non-christians’ who are feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting widows, healing the sick, etc…Matthew 25…putting to shame many of us who say ‘Jesus is Lord’. A lot of people seem to know God, but maybe they don’t know His Name yet…there WILL be an introduction some day.
I studied Obama and I could identify with his brand of ‘christianity’ more than I could Palin’s or McCain’s. As for abortion…republicans have been in the white house 28 of the past 40 years since Roe vs Wade became law and well, maybe it is in their best interest NOT to reverse it…that way they have something to champion in furture elections. (Also, if we really believe life begins when an egg is fertilized, why aren’t we outraged by the number of babies discarded in the process of invitro fertilization (used by many evangelicals) which often requires that many eggs get fertilized while only ONE gets the chance at life? What happens to the unused eggs?
As for gay marriage…we all know God is the One who does the marrying…not the stae. As Obama said ‘marriage is between a man and woman and it is a religious institution’…civil unions are another matter.
I had some wonderful conversations today……because of the outcome last night. I sense this very well could present many wonderful opportunites for reconciliation and healing. I couldn’t help but think of Dr. King last night. I reread today his profound letter to his fellow clergymen written from the Birmingham jail. A couple years ago I read through many of his letters and speeches and learned many things and was profoundly affected by it.
From Dr. King’s letter I mentioned above. Now this is generosity coming from a man cught up in such a monumental struggle for justice in the face of such injustice.
“If I have said anything in this letter that overstates the truth and indicates an unreasonable impatience, I beg you to forgive me. If I have have said anything that understates the truth and indicates my having a patience that allows me to settle for anything less than brotherhood, I beg God to forgive me.”
I think it is horribly narrow minded to think that the only reason some Christians voted against Obama is about two issues. Talk about bias. First of all neither of them in my mind were on the ‘right’ side of the abortion issue.Did anyone bother to take time to look at the other issues that Obama proposed? It appears that most that voted for him did NOT. At least the ones I spoke with had no idea that he intends to have government take over several of our industries while promising to only tax ‘the rich’. That amount has been lowering as we got closer to the election. We already know that health care will be in the hands of the government. Anyone with half a brain or has had a dreadful experience with a sick parent forced to have Medicare knows that is a horrible alternative. Either they will completely take over the health insurance industry or the industry will no longer exist. Business will be forced to pay for this. You know the government plan will be cheaper and will cover less than many private insurance policies do. Jobs will be lost or the size of government will dramatically increase.
The issue with abortion and gay marriage is not just those sinful practices. The issue is freedom of religion, especially with the same-sex issues. For those that threw the same-sex issues under the bus make sure you read any hate crimes legislation to make sure that freedom of religion is not taken away from us. They may have voted for the persecution of fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. This is NOT just an issue about sin.
I do agree that regardless that Christ is Lord and more powerful than anything. I just get concerned about Christians possibly setting all of us up for persecution of our government. It is one thing to experience persecution. It is another to ask our government to do that to others.
He said that the first thing he would do is sign the Freedom of Choice Act. For those that think it is only an issue about a wonan’s right to choose, think again. Every restriction that is currently on the books will be wiped out. Health facilities will have to offer abortions. Catholic hospitals and other institutions may have to make the choice of doing abortions or shutting down. This again is a freedom of religion issue, not just the sin of abortion. I would hate to see those places close up because of this. I have already heard of one Catholic adoption agency in the US closing because they would have to consider same-sex couples for adoption. It is not dealing with discrimination but infringing on the freedom of religion.
We are in a pretty sad day in America when Christians can justify a vote for someone that has told us he will take many of our freedoms away. For someone that is trying to be open this article is nothing more than a rant that has not been thought out very well. Jesus will take care of me BUT we all will be held responsible for how we vote and why. It is pretty evident that this was not well thought out at all. May God have mercy on us for allowing this to take place.
I do not consider Obama as the enemy. He is highly deceived. If you think he is going to unite all you had to do is see the people he hung around with. The Bible says that bad company corrupts good morals. Those people are NOT uniters at all but dividers. As a black person I was appalled at how he bated the race issue for notes. This was divisive. Anyone that claims he wants to unite is blind or deceived themselves. We are supposed to be past race. I am past it. It is evident that he is NOT. Many fellow blacks will not be hopeful if he is successful in implementing his socialist programs, especially when they see their free money decrease dramatically with the huge tax increases needed to fund these programs. I will be sincerely praying for Godly wisdom and that maybe some of the folk up there can talk some sense into him and that he will NOT implement the policies I have heard him mention.
I’m so glad that the government is not my source. I will thrive because of my relationship with the Lord. That does not give me the excuse to throw out my beliefs for revenge.
Excellent post Wayne! I appreciated your rational comments and agree with many of them. Let’s hope this is a turn for the better in America and the world.
I had some wonderful conversations today……because of the outcome last night. I sense this very well could present many wonderful opportunites for reconciliation and healing. I couldn’t help but think of Dr. King last night. I reread today his profound letter to his fellow clergymen written from the Birmingham jail. A couple years ago I read through many of his letters and speeches and learned many things and was profoundly affected by it.
From Dr. King’s letter I mentioned above. Now this is generosity coming from a man cught up in such a monumental struggle for justice in the face of such injustice.
“If I have said anything in this letter that overstates the truth and indicates an unreasonable impatience, I beg you to forgive me. If I have have said anything that understates the truth and indicates my having a patience that allows me to settle for anything less than brotherhood, I beg God to forgive me.”
I think it is horribly narrow minded to think that the only reason some Christians voted against Obama is about two issues. Talk about bias. First of all neither of them in my mind were on the ‘right’ side of the abortion issue.Did anyone bother to take time to look at the other issues that Obama proposed? It appears that most that voted for him did NOT. At least the ones I spoke with had no idea that he intends to have government take over several of our industries while promising to only tax ‘the rich’. That amount has been lowering as we got closer to the election. We already know that health care will be in the hands of the government. Anyone with half a brain or has had a dreadful experience with a sick parent forced to have Medicare knows that is a horrible alternative. Either they will completely take over the health insurance industry or the industry will no longer exist. Business will be forced to pay for this. You know the government plan will be cheaper and will cover less than many private insurance policies do. Jobs will be lost or the size of government will dramatically increase.
The issue with abortion and gay marriage is not just those sinful practices. The issue is freedom of religion, especially with the same-sex issues. For those that threw the same-sex issues under the bus make sure you read any hate crimes legislation to make sure that freedom of religion is not taken away from us. They may have voted for the persecution of fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. This is NOT just an issue about sin.
I do agree that regardless that Christ is Lord and more powerful than anything. I just get concerned about Christians possibly setting all of us up for persecution of our government. It is one thing to experience persecution. It is another to ask our government to do that to others.
He said that the first thing he would do is sign the Freedom of Choice Act. For those that think it is only an issue about a wonan’s right to choose, think again. Every restriction that is currently on the books will be wiped out. Health facilities will have to offer abortions. Catholic hospitals and other institutions may have to make the choice of doing abortions or shutting down. This again is a freedom of religion issue, not just the sin of abortion. I would hate to see those places close up because of this. I have already heard of one Catholic adoption agency in the US closing because they would have to consider same-sex couples for adoption. It is not dealing with discrimination but infringing on the freedom of religion.
We are in a pretty sad day in America when Christians can justify a vote for someone that has told us he will take many of our freedoms away. For someone that is trying to be open this article is nothing more than a rant that has not been thought out very well. Jesus will take care of me BUT we all will be held responsible for how we vote and why. It is pretty evident that this was not well thought out at all. May God have mercy on us for allowing this to take place.
I do not consider Obama as the enemy. He is highly deceived. If you think he is going to unite all you had to do is see the people he hung around with. The Bible says that bad company corrupts good morals. Those people are NOT uniters at all but dividers. As a black person I was appalled at how he bated the race issue for notes. This was divisive. Anyone that claims he wants to unite is blind or deceived themselves. We are supposed to be past race. I am past it. It is evident that he is NOT. Many fellow blacks will not be hopeful if he is successful in implementing his socialist programs, especially when they see their free money decrease dramatically with the huge tax increases needed to fund these programs. I will be sincerely praying for Godly wisdom and that maybe some of the folk up there can talk some sense into him and that he will NOT implement the policies I have heard him mention.
I’m so glad that the government is not my source. I will thrive because of my relationship with the Lord. That does not give me the excuse to throw out my beliefs for revenge.
Hi Wayne, and hello to others.
I’d like to comment as an non American, and non European as well. (No, Switzerland is NOT part of the European union). First of all, the majority of people abroad – as far as I can see and hear – is glad Obama made it. And because, like Wayne said, some things are going to change. And the 1st thing is, I believe, the image that the US gives to the world. From almost the beginning of his mandate, GW has ruined the image of the US for many reasons which I’m not going to discuss here. I used to live in the US, and I tell you, I love this country. And the Americans. After all, our 1st daughter is American ! More too often, Europeans put everybody in the same basket, and I had many times to correct this narrow vision. Because it is true that the US is a great country, and can have such an influence over the rest of the world. We say here than when the US sneezes, Europe get the flu 😉 So yes, I’m happy that Bush is out. And I hope that the 1st amendment of your constitution (freedom of speech and of press) will be real again.
I pray for Americans as weel, for more Jesus’s and Papa’s values in this beautiful country.
At last , I’ll conclude with a quote from a Swiss comedian : “Nothing has change in America, when Obama will get in the white house, he’ll have to deal with a catastrophic situation. So as usual, in the States, they always give the dirty work to black people !”
Hi Wayne, and hello to others.
I’d like to comment as an non American, and non European as well. (No, Switzerland is NOT part of the European union). First of all, the majority of people abroad – as far as I can see and hear – is glad Obama made it. And because, like Wayne said, some things are going to change. And the 1st thing is, I believe, the image that the US gives to the world. From almost the beginning of his mandate, GW has ruined the image of the US for many reasons which I’m not going to discuss here. I used to live in the US, and I tell you, I love this country. And the Americans. After all, our 1st daughter is American ! More too often, Europeans put everybody in the same basket, and I had many times to correct this narrow vision. Because it is true that the US is a great country, and can have such an influence over the rest of the world. We say here than when the US sneezes, Europe get the flu 😉 So yes, I’m happy that Bush is out. And I hope that the 1st amendment of your constitution (freedom of speech and of press) will be real again.
I pray for Americans as weel, for more Jesus’s and Papa’s values in this beautiful country.
At last , I’ll conclude with a quote from a Swiss comedian : “Nothing has change in America, when Obama will get in the white house, he’ll have to deal with a catastrophic situation. So as usual, in the States, they always give the dirty work to black people !”
Well all I can say is WOW. I guess I am blind to all thing other than human life and the stability of the Family. I guess I just am not intelligent enough to think of anything else other than to protect those things the Lord has surely ordained as holy. I am 31 and am hoping that I will actually have years when the kids are gone to enjoy some sort of quiet time and not worry about the money every stretching but that is no reason to vote for a person who votes against life and supports perversion.
Wayne I respect you for sharing your thoughts and actions. But I had to swat away this tickling sensation I got in my ears as you spoke. There is a HUGE deception going on and SO MANY WHO SHOULD NO BETTER are eating it up and begging for more.
I don’t claim to know anything about anything going on and the spiritual significance of this election but I will say there are basics that can not be ignored and there are philosophies that are fodder. I am sick to my stomach over it. The election was voted on because of color not content of character. ANyone saying to the contrary is fooling themselves. This election flies in the face of Dr. King’s dream.
Sorry about the grammatical errors . . . just struggling to get my thoughts out.
I also took fear/love as the crux of my own post in support of Obama. And I echo your statement about having lots of respect for McCain before the election. This truly is a historic high water mark for hope in our country, at least culturally speaking, so let’s all make the most of it!
Hi Wayne, :o)
I really appreciate this thoughtful blog, and your take on this election has really challenged my thinking. I couldn’t bring myself to vote for either candidate for many reasons, and have been worried what a Barack Obama presidency would do to our country. But if having an african american in the White House gives hope to an oppressed people, and heals wounds caused by racial prejudice, then it will be worth it…..
Pragmatic thinking. I think this philosophy haunts us as followers of Christ. I think we justify our decision thinking we know the future. Well, we do not know what will happen tomorrow, so do you think your vote will change that?
I really do not understand why followers of Christ would vote for either of these two candidates. If even one cent of my tax money goes to any of the unbiblical stances they both own I would not be fleeing evil. So I am definitely not going to support either one.
Are we not to be looking to God and trusting Him to save us and not trying to have politics save us? After all we are citizens of heaven first.
Obama is in office by God’s Will, I do not understand it, but I am ready to suffer for Christ and use this to advance His Kingdom.
Brian
Although I agree with a some of what Wayne wrote, I chose not to vote for Obama. And for many of the reasons he articulated, I could not vote for McCain either. There were other choices on the ballot, thankfully.
I read an interesting perspective from a black man this morning.
http://theologica.blogspot.com/2008/11/eric-redmond-living-soli-deo-gloria.html
Yesterday I surprisingly found myself overjoyed in Obama being elected. Not because I’ll agree with many of his acts as President, but because of the fact that we as a people have changed. I loathe racism. There is only one race, the human race. (Acts 17:26) 140 years ago, black people were considered sub-human, property to be bought and sold. It wasn’t until 40 years ago that a black person could vote. Today, we have one as President elect. For that I exalt in God.
If God can change us in such a way, there is hope that He will continue to change us so that one day a baby in the womb is as safe as one out of the womb.
– Kevin
I would loved to have voted for a minority candidate or a woman if they had represented that which I hold most dear.
I agree with some of what you said Wayne… at the same time, I don’t think ‘single issue voting’ is as narrow minded as some think. By not voting for Obama I am standing up for LIFE – not abortion, MARRIAGE, not an unbiblical union, FAMILY – not the government taking our children from us (masquerading as ‘voluntary educational programs from birth on up).
We cannot say for sure if Obama is a Christian anymore than we can anyone else… but you’re going to put your confidence in a man with his highly questionable associations?? As stated above, his agenda largely does not reflect basic Christian values.
No matter what other ‘brilliant’ ideas Obama has – how can we hope for Father to continue to bless us as a nation under God when we are essentially doing away with foundational values of this country and of being a follower of Christ?
Each time we put a democrat in the oval office and see a majority of democratic appointments, we lose freedoms. And those of us who work for a living pay for the government invasion out of our taxes.
The way we have been shaped to process all of this political stuff really does remain a mystery to me.
question? When was the last time the president really set the tone for holiness/freedom in Christ/Jesus the way, in the population here in America? Everytime a Democrat takes over we hear of doom and gloom predictions from the conservative religious community that the country is going to hell in a hand basket. When a Republican takes over we can hear the same things from the liberal religious community (if you listen closely enough.) They all aren’t as “Godless” as they are accused of being. The Republicans pretty much controlled power in Washington since 94 (and some might argue, since the early 80s) and if we really think that was a more “pleasing to God” time period, I really think we might want to check our scale of judgement and discernment. I no longer buy the argument that the Republicans represent the things of God any better than the Democrats do. Maybe they sound like they do with their rhetoric but I don’t fall for that manipulation/destortion any longer either. Nation state politics are a nasty business. Even the so-called lesser forms of nastiness are still nasty. It’s just the nature of the world’s power game….both parties seem to be equal opportunity offenders of the message of the gospel….the violating just plays out in different ways.
Individuals are still responsible for the way they choose to live and Papa still seems to be very slow to anger and full of loving kindness and wasteful when it comes to his life transforming grace that he doesn’t seem to ever withdraw from us…whether Republican, Democrat, capitalist, socialist or any other catagory we humans create. When are any of us really that worthy of such grace, except for the fact that he is fond us all? The apostle Paul lived with the attitude that he was the chiefest of sinners. I think there is a lesson in that for us. I don’t think anyone’s political affiliation gives anyone a leg up on anyone else when it comes to these matters. Voting in and of itself isn’t necessarily a kingdom of God activity…but even still, the way I am coming to see it Father uses it all.
Well all I can say is WOW. I guess I am blind to all thing other than human life and the stability of the Family. I guess I just am not intelligent enough to think of anything else other than to protect those things the Lord has surely ordained as holy. I am 31 and am hoping that I will actually have years when the kids are gone to enjoy some sort of quiet time and not worry about the money every stretching but that is no reason to vote for a person who votes against life and supports perversion.
Wayne I respect you for sharing your thoughts and actions. But I had to swat away this tickling sensation I got in my ears as you spoke. There is a HUGE deception going on and SO MANY WHO SHOULD NO BETTER are eating it up and begging for more.
I don’t claim to know anything about anything going on and the spiritual significance of this election but I will say there are basics that can not be ignored and there are philosophies that are fodder. I am sick to my stomach over it. The election was voted on because of color not content of character. ANyone saying to the contrary is fooling themselves. This election flies in the face of Dr. King’s dream.
Sorry about the grammatical errors . . . just struggling to get my thoughts out.
I also took fear/love as the crux of my own post in support of Obama. And I echo your statement about having lots of respect for McCain before the election. This truly is a historic high water mark for hope in our country, at least culturally speaking, so let’s all make the most of it!
Wayne,
I didn’t know I liked you until I read this post this morning… I was directed by a friend who thought there might be things here that I could understand, relate to and appreciate. I’ve been having struggles on this front myself.
There were a few things that really struck a chord with me – your brief discussion about McCain. I felt the exact same way. I live in Arizona and elected McCain to represent our state. Had he, in this campaign, been the man I elected years ago or the man that gave his concession speech I would have voted for him. He is a great man without a doubt and I believe that his service to our country is invaluable however I was concerned with how his campaign was run and the negativity that was pervasive in his speech and in the debates.
The second thing you wrote that struck a chord with me was about Obama and his interest in hope and in change. We as a country cannot withstand further movement down this path we have been going down for the last 8 years. We cannot continue to pretend that we are immune from financial crisis or international affairs.
Lastly, the other night as the news broke that Obama had been elected something wonderful happened. The station tuned to Dr. King’s daughter who said that she knew tonight that her father had not died in vain. That resounded so completely with me. We in one fell swoop honored every person who died for freedom – not just American but of all people. We looked into our hearts as a country and we elected the person who was best for the climate of our country not based on race but based on the ability to listen to the current issues and try to move in a more positive direction. We honored the peaceful, the non-violent, the rational thinkers and the people who most crave the best that we have to offer. We moved one step closer to the meek inheriting the earth.
This post is eloquently written and from your heart. Thank you for a glimpse into the hope that you have for our country and for our future. Thank you for speaking your mind. I certainly appreciate it and will come read again… Bless you today.
Hi Wayne, :o)
I really appreciate this thoughtful blog, and your take on this election has really challenged my thinking. I couldn’t bring myself to vote for either candidate for many reasons, and have been worried what a Barack Obama presidency would do to our country. But if having an african american in the White House gives hope to an oppressed people, and heals wounds caused by racial prejudice, then it will be worth it…..
So much to respond to here. I’m comfortable with folks who disagree with me and realize there were lots of reasons to vote different ways. I have had to disapprove some posts that traded in unfounded accusations toward the President-elect.
And believe me there is much about Obama that is scary. He has lots to tackle and lots to prove, especially whether or not he’ll really be a President for all of the people, and not just fall in lockstep with the Democratic establishment. Time will tell. Our speculations here will be meaningless in four years. It will be what it is. I don’t expect it to be perfect. I expect him to make me angry some, but he certainly has the intelligence to think outside the box, the articulation to inspire millions of people, and I hope the fair-mindedness to lead well.
But for those who worry our freedoms will be taken away, have you been asleep the last few years? Look how much freedom we lost to ‘security concerns’ after 9/11 when a President told us our only role in the war on terror was to, “Keep Shopping.” Look how many American soldiers and Iraqi civilians lost their lives in an unnecessary war. And only a month ago a REPUBLICAN president nationalized the banking and insurance industries for $700 Billion dollars to bail out the CEOs and their companies who defrauded a nation and drove a world to the verge of economic collapse to line their own pockets. As Republicans now our blaming the liberals for thinking the government is the answer have been rendered irrelevant. That alone is worse than any Democratic administration has ever done.
Someone sent me a statistic yesterday that abortions actually declined in the US under Clinton and increased under Bush. Surprising? Yes. But one has to wonder why after so many Republican presidents and Congresses, nothing was done about that issue. Perhaps they are less interested in solving it than using it to inspire voters.
Am I hopeful all of this will turn out well? No! That is not up to any man, but the God who holds history in his hands. Who knows what he has in store for our world in days to come? It is enough for me to wake up today and follow him in the real details of my life. But I didn’t want to miss celebrating with that our nation has reached a milestone when an African-American, who wouldn’t have even been able to vote 40 years ago, joins the most exclusive club of white males on the planet.
Pragmatic thinking. I think this philosophy haunts us as followers of Christ. I think we justify our decision thinking we know the future. Well, we do not know what will happen tomorrow, so do you think your vote will change that?
I really do not understand why followers of Christ would vote for either of these two candidates. If even one cent of my tax money goes to any of the unbiblical stances they both own I would not be fleeing evil. So I am definitely not going to support either one.
Are we not to be looking to God and trusting Him to save us and not trying to have politics save us? After all we are citizens of heaven first.
Obama is in office by God’s Will, I do not understand it, but I am ready to suffer for Christ and use this to advance His Kingdom.
Brian
Although I agree with a some of what Wayne wrote, I chose not to vote for Obama. And for many of the reasons he articulated, I could not vote for McCain either. There were other choices on the ballot, thankfully.
I read an interesting perspective from a black man this morning.
http://theologica.blogspot.com/2008/11/eric-redmond-living-soli-deo-gloria.html
Yesterday I surprisingly found myself overjoyed in Obama being elected. Not because I’ll agree with many of his acts as President, but because of the fact that we as a people have changed. I loathe racism. There is only one race, the human race. (Acts 17:26) 140 years ago, black people were considered sub-human, property to be bought and sold. It wasn’t until 40 years ago that a black person could vote. Today, we have one as President elect. For that I exalt in God.
If God can change us in such a way, there is hope that He will continue to change us so that one day a baby in the womb is as safe as one out of the womb.
– Kevin
Now that this election is over (Thank God), can we realize (as Brian has) that Obama was elected according to Gods will. As written in Daniel 4:17, when interpreting Nebuconezzar’s dream,
17 ” ‘The decision is announced by messengers, the holy ones declare the verdict, so that the living may know that the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he wishes and sets over them the lowliest of men.’
Obama, Congress, and the courts are ONLY going to do what God’s will has determined to be done from the beginning.
(Isa. 46:10 10 I make known the end from the beginning,
from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say: My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please.)
While I voted (reluctantly I might add) for Obama. I can rest in God’s will to be done. My vote had NOTHING to do with abortion, and I feel for those who make that issue and idol of the heart. As for “having the government taking over many of our industries”, I say “get real” It’s ALREADY happening with the $700 billion bailout. And from what I hear the auto industry is looking for either a bailout or government loans. Nevertheless, God’s will IS going to be done. May God grant us the faith sufficient to focus on Christ in the midst of these times.
Chet
I would loved to have voted for a minority candidate or a woman if they had represented that which I hold most dear.
I agree with some of what you said Wayne… at the same time, I don’t think ‘single issue voting’ is as narrow minded as some think. By not voting for Obama I am standing up for LIFE – not abortion, MARRIAGE, not an unbiblical union, FAMILY – not the government taking our children from us (masquerading as ‘voluntary educational programs from birth on up).
We cannot say for sure if Obama is a Christian anymore than we can anyone else… but you’re going to put your confidence in a man with his highly questionable associations?? As stated above, his agenda largely does not reflect basic Christian values.
No matter what other ‘brilliant’ ideas Obama has – how can we hope for Father to continue to bless us as a nation under God when we are essentially doing away with foundational values of this country and of being a follower of Christ?
Each time we put a democrat in the oval office and see a majority of democratic appointments, we lose freedoms. And those of us who work for a living pay for the government invasion out of our taxes.
And here I thought I was reading an apolitical blog and website. Silly me.
I sincerely ask this question. When every human being went to the polls and voted, how on earth can we say it is God’s will that anyone is elected? Not all votes are supposedly God’s will. When Samuel heard from God about the judges that ruled God’s people they rebelled saying that they wanted a king. They barked so much about it that God gave them a king with a stern warning about what would happen if they got a king. They insisted and they got a king. If anyone thinks it was God’s will to be ruled by kings I would suggest that they read again why they got the king. It was not God’s plan for His people. This election reminds me so much of this. Some people elected Obama so that other nations will like us. We know what happened. We are not in the exact same scenario. I’m just saying that God’s people voted to have a king and it did not dare well. We chose Obama for whatever reason, not God.
I as a black person am glad to see a black person in office. I cannot think of a single black person that is not excited about that. It will forever silence the naysayers about the so-called racial divide. Unfortunately Obama played that hand which upset me greatly. Many blacks have been hurt by racism. I will not negate that at all. However much of it nowadays is imagined. I have seen this first hand. Anger and bitterness blinds people. One of my friends today I rarely talk about trouble it is always because of her race when many times she found out it was not. Another one of my good friends was reared in SC and was one of the first blacks to go to an integrated school back in the day. She is one that could not bring herself to vote for Obama because of his socialist tendencies. The debate is whether we should separate the symbolism of a black person in office and paying attention to what that black man is proposing. I am sincerely struggling with his proposals that will basically be a government takeover. I agree with Wayne that the Republicans have absolutely been horrible. This is why they lost. Many probably did vote for Obama as a knee-jerk reaction as it appears that Wayne and his wife did. I almost did not vote at all which would have been a first for me. The differences were slim to none.
Thank God that this madness is finally over. All of us that love the Lord can get to the business of preparing ourselves for a new president. I have nothing against the man personally. I sincerely pray that he will not be successful in his policies or we will end up like other nations that have 80% or higher tax rates or cannot say the name of Christ without going to jail. Again we know that Christ is Lord in every nation where His followers reside. I just don’t like the idea that we may have elected someone whose policies will curb religious freedom in this country.
The way we have been shaped to process all of this political stuff really does remain a mystery to me.
question? When was the last time the president really set the tone for holiness/freedom in Christ/Jesus the way, in the population here in America? Everytime a Democrat takes over we hear of doom and gloom predictions from the conservative religious community that the country is going to hell in a hand basket. When a Republican takes over we can hear the same things from the liberal religious community (if you listen closely enough.) They all aren’t as “Godless” as they are accused of being. The Republicans pretty much controlled power in Washington since 94 (and some might argue, since the early 80s) and if we really think that was a more “pleasing to God” time period, I really think we might want to check our scale of judgement and discernment. I no longer buy the argument that the Republicans represent the things of God any better than the Democrats do. Maybe they sound like they do with their rhetoric but I don’t fall for that manipulation/destortion any longer either. Nation state politics are a nasty business. Even the so-called lesser forms of nastiness are still nasty. It’s just the nature of the world’s power game….both parties seem to be equal opportunity offenders of the message of the gospel….the violating just plays out in different ways.
Individuals are still responsible for the way they choose to live and Papa still seems to be very slow to anger and full of loving kindness and wasteful when it comes to his life transforming grace that he doesn’t seem to ever withdraw from us…whether Republican, Democrat, capitalist, socialist or any other catagory we humans create. When are any of us really that worthy of such grace, except for the fact that he is fond us all? The apostle Paul lived with the attitude that he was the chiefest of sinners. I think there is a lesson in that for us. I don’t think anyone’s political affiliation gives anyone a leg up on anyone else when it comes to these matters. Voting in and of itself isn’t necessarily a kingdom of God activity…but even still, the way I am coming to see it Father uses it all.
For the majority of these responses, I would like to give you some adjectives to ponder. Some are synonyms of the others, but let’s list them anyways:
Anxious, Frantic, Urgent, Scared, Surprised, Worried, Fearful, Expectant, Disturbed…
Well, I suppose the list could go on.
Let’s have a look at some other adjectives:
Peaceful, Confident, Unshakable, Calm, Patient, Reassured…
Thankfully, this list can go on too.
If your words and actions can be classified as results from the first list, I would challenge you to take another look at the object (thing, man, being) you are giving your focus and expectations to, and why you’re reacting in the form of those adjectives.
It is obvious and acceptable that some of us need Father walking with us through this, to restore our confidence in him, so that we are peaceful and assured.
What are your expectations? What is your agenda? What is Father’s agenda? What is the big picture? Own up to your “adjectives.” If you are “worried”, that’s ok. Father has promised to see us through. But we shouldn’t tear each other down as a reaction from our negative “adjective.” Take the opportunity to say to this wealth of believers something like, “I’m WORRIED that [this world event] will mean [this result]! I need encouragement! And now, Gods promises can be shared, rather than the unending list of human perspectives.
Let’s not be fooled by thinking our own back and forth is any different than that of a flawed, and more importantly, human political machine. As Christians, I challenge you to be encouraging each other, lifting each other up in the certainty of our Father, not tearing each other down in the uncertainty of the intentions of a man or a government. If that continues to be our stage, we get nowhere. These types of world events are exactly the opportunities for believers to demonstrate that circumstances don’t rule the believer, or the hope of the believer.
Let’s stop trying to predict “things” that will happen as a result of other “things” and accusing others as supporting or not supporting that “thing.” Let’s wait, watch, and participate in how Father works through the happenings that we are a part of with him each day, and take those small opportunities to let our “adjectives” be ones that reflect him in the midst of crisis AND celebration.
Wayne,
Thank you so much for saying many of the same things I’ve been trying to say to my evangelical friends who seem to think that Obama’s election means certain doom for our country.
My husband and I attended a Democratic rally in Virginia to watch the election returns come in. When it was announced that Barack Obama had been elected president, the reaction in the room was incredibly moving. Most poignant of all was the reaction of a thin, well-dressed black lady who had been standing near us. She was overcome with emotion, covered her face with her hands, bent over as if unable to contain what was in her heart, and wept. When she recovered slightly, she hugged everyone in sight. We were in tears just seeing how overwhelmed and overjoyed she was.
I’ve heard all the reasons we shouldn’t have voted for Obama, but I couldn’t help thinking as I watched that black lady that what I was seeing was God’s justice for all the years that black people have suffered. As far as I’m concerned, even if Obama’s presidency is a disaster (and I agree with you that it’s hard to imagine how it could be any worse than Bush’s presidency), this vindication for black people is the most important thing to come out of this election.
Judy
Wayne,
I didn’t know I liked you until I read this post this morning… I was directed by a friend who thought there might be things here that I could understand, relate to and appreciate. I’ve been having struggles on this front myself.
There were a few things that really struck a chord with me – your brief discussion about McCain. I felt the exact same way. I live in Arizona and elected McCain to represent our state. Had he, in this campaign, been the man I elected years ago or the man that gave his concession speech I would have voted for him. He is a great man without a doubt and I believe that his service to our country is invaluable however I was concerned with how his campaign was run and the negativity that was pervasive in his speech and in the debates.
The second thing you wrote that struck a chord with me was about Obama and his interest in hope and in change. We as a country cannot withstand further movement down this path we have been going down for the last 8 years. We cannot continue to pretend that we are immune from financial crisis or international affairs.
Lastly, the other night as the news broke that Obama had been elected something wonderful happened. The station tuned to Dr. King’s daughter who said that she knew tonight that her father had not died in vain. That resounded so completely with me. We in one fell swoop honored every person who died for freedom – not just American but of all people. We looked into our hearts as a country and we elected the person who was best for the climate of our country not based on race but based on the ability to listen to the current issues and try to move in a more positive direction. We honored the peaceful, the non-violent, the rational thinkers and the people who most crave the best that we have to offer. We moved one step closer to the meek inheriting the earth.
This post is eloquently written and from your heart. Thank you for a glimpse into the hope that you have for our country and for our future. Thank you for speaking your mind. I certainly appreciate it and will come read again… Bless you today.
So much to respond to here. I’m comfortable with folks who disagree with me and realize there were lots of reasons to vote different ways. I have had to disapprove some posts that traded in unfounded accusations toward the President-elect.
And believe me there is much about Obama that is scary. He has lots to tackle and lots to prove, especially whether or not he’ll really be a President for all of the people, and not just fall in lockstep with the Democratic establishment. Time will tell. Our speculations here will be meaningless in four years. It will be what it is. I don’t expect it to be perfect. I expect him to make me angry some, but he certainly has the intelligence to think outside the box, the articulation to inspire millions of people, and I hope the fair-mindedness to lead well.
But for those who worry our freedoms will be taken away, have you been asleep the last few years? Look how much freedom we lost to ‘security concerns’ after 9/11 when a President told us our only role in the war on terror was to, “Keep Shopping.” Look how many American soldiers and Iraqi civilians lost their lives in an unnecessary war. And only a month ago a REPUBLICAN president nationalized the banking and insurance industries for $700 Billion dollars to bail out the CEOs and their companies who defrauded a nation and drove a world to the verge of economic collapse to line their own pockets. As Republicans now our blaming the liberals for thinking the government is the answer have been rendered irrelevant. That alone is worse than any Democratic administration has ever done.
Someone sent me a statistic yesterday that abortions actually declined in the US under Clinton and increased under Bush. Surprising? Yes. But one has to wonder why after so many Republican presidents and Congresses, nothing was done about that issue. Perhaps they are less interested in solving it than using it to inspire voters.
Am I hopeful all of this will turn out well? No! That is not up to any man, but the God who holds history in his hands. Who knows what he has in store for our world in days to come? It is enough for me to wake up today and follow him in the real details of my life. But I didn’t want to miss celebrating with that our nation has reached a milestone when an African-American, who wouldn’t have even been able to vote 40 years ago, joins the most exclusive club of white males on the planet.
Dear Wayne, Thank you so much for writing this. Our church friends have been bombarding us with the fear talk for weeks now and we have just watched in dismay as the McCain campaign stooped as low as it could go in their attacks on Obama. I personally had a real struggle over who to vote for, and up until a week and a half ago I was going to write in the constitution party candidate as a safe throw away vote. Ironically, all of the smears on Obama that people had been sending me actually caused me to reconsider and take a closer look at the facts. I reached the conclusion that most of it was falsehood and distortion (I guess being just pro-choice is not enough to get the christian right to vote against the dems, you now have to be the most pro-choice candidate ever!!). So I prayed and asked the Lord what He would have me do, and I really felt a sense of peace from Him about the decision, which was so awesome and kind of Him. I think it is more pleasing to Him to reach these decisions after seeking the truth, prayer, thinking through the issues, and then reaching a strong personal conviction, as opposed to just voting out of fear or because of what others might think. If we do this, I think it is not really so important to Him who we actually vote for. It’s kind of that whole faith versus fear thing.
So I still had some lingering doubts in the back of my mind, even on election day about my choice. The following morning, after the election was over, I asked the Lord to speak through His word, and allow me to just open to a random verse and have it be His word for me at that moment. (I don’t typically like to do this, but I felt the grace for it at that moment.) I opened to Isaiah 42 and started reading in the first verse (New Century version):
“Here is my servant, the one I support. He is the one I chose, and I am pleased with him. I have put my Spirit upon him, and he will bring justice to all nations.”
It was kind of mindblowing 🙂
Now that this election is over (Thank God), can we realize (as Brian has) that Obama was elected according to Gods will. As written in Daniel 4:17, when interpreting Nebuconezzar’s dream,
17 ” ‘The decision is announced by messengers, the holy ones declare the verdict, so that the living may know that the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he wishes and sets over them the lowliest of men.’
Obama, Congress, and the courts are ONLY going to do what God’s will has determined to be done from the beginning.
(Isa. 46:10 10 I make known the end from the beginning,
from ancient times, what is still to come.
I say: My purpose will stand,
and I will do all that I please.)
While I voted (reluctantly I might add) for Obama. I can rest in God’s will to be done. My vote had NOTHING to do with abortion, and I feel for those who make that issue and idol of the heart. As for “having the government taking over many of our industries”, I say “get real” It’s ALREADY happening with the $700 billion bailout. And from what I hear the auto industry is looking for either a bailout or government loans. Nevertheless, God’s will IS going to be done. May God grant us the faith sufficient to focus on Christ in the midst of these times.
Chet
And here I thought I was reading an apolitical blog and website. Silly me.
I sincerely ask this question. When every human being went to the polls and voted, how on earth can we say it is God’s will that anyone is elected? Not all votes are supposedly God’s will. When Samuel heard from God about the judges that ruled God’s people they rebelled saying that they wanted a king. They barked so much about it that God gave them a king with a stern warning about what would happen if they got a king. They insisted and they got a king. If anyone thinks it was God’s will to be ruled by kings I would suggest that they read again why they got the king. It was not God’s plan for His people. This election reminds me so much of this. Some people elected Obama so that other nations will like us. We know what happened. We are not in the exact same scenario. I’m just saying that God’s people voted to have a king and it did not dare well. We chose Obama for whatever reason, not God.
I as a black person am glad to see a black person in office. I cannot think of a single black person that is not excited about that. It will forever silence the naysayers about the so-called racial divide. Unfortunately Obama played that hand which upset me greatly. Many blacks have been hurt by racism. I will not negate that at all. However much of it nowadays is imagined. I have seen this first hand. Anger and bitterness blinds people. One of my friends today I rarely talk about trouble it is always because of her race when many times she found out it was not. Another one of my good friends was reared in SC and was one of the first blacks to go to an integrated school back in the day. She is one that could not bring herself to vote for Obama because of his socialist tendencies. The debate is whether we should separate the symbolism of a black person in office and paying attention to what that black man is proposing. I am sincerely struggling with his proposals that will basically be a government takeover. I agree with Wayne that the Republicans have absolutely been horrible. This is why they lost. Many probably did vote for Obama as a knee-jerk reaction as it appears that Wayne and his wife did. I almost did not vote at all which would have been a first for me. The differences were slim to none.
Thank God that this madness is finally over. All of us that love the Lord can get to the business of preparing ourselves for a new president. I have nothing against the man personally. I sincerely pray that he will not be successful in his policies or we will end up like other nations that have 80% or higher tax rates or cannot say the name of Christ without going to jail. Again we know that Christ is Lord in every nation where His followers reside. I just don’t like the idea that we may have elected someone whose policies will curb religious freedom in this country.
All I can say is somebody must “have prayed that stupied prayer” for our country!!!!!!!!!
What ever it takes Lord for us to know You better. And to press us into Papa for real hope.
I do not EXPECT the laws of the land to be moral. It is shear grace when it happens.
Thanks for opening this discussion. What an opportunity to experience Body Life in the wider world of the internet. It would be wonderful if these responses could be more like Wayne’s original. That is just defend your vote. So if you voted for McCain it was a sad day for you. Let’s have a conversation about that with out diminishing the opposing viewpoint. Is there a way to let those who voted for Obama have the joy that comes with a win. And in that celebrating restrain from putting down the opposition.
No one knows the future and when we fast forward God’s never there in the picture. (from The Shack)
Thank goodness the campaining is over. This race cost ONE BILLION dollars. LORD HAVE MERCY ON US.
For the majority of these responses, I would like to give you some adjectives to ponder. Some are synonyms of the others, but let’s list them anyways:
Anxious, Frantic, Urgent, Scared, Surprised, Worried, Fearful, Expectant, Disturbed…
Well, I suppose the list could go on.
Let’s have a look at some other adjectives:
Peaceful, Confident, Unshakable, Calm, Patient, Reassured…
Thankfully, this list can go on too.
If your words and actions can be classified as results from the first list, I would challenge you to take another look at the object (thing, man, being) you are giving your focus and expectations to, and why you’re reacting in the form of those adjectives.
It is obvious and acceptable that some of us need Father walking with us through this, to restore our confidence in him, so that we are peaceful and assured.
What are your expectations? What is your agenda? What is Father’s agenda? What is the big picture? Own up to your “adjectives.” If you are “worried”, that’s ok. Father has promised to see us through. But we shouldn’t tear each other down as a reaction from our negative “adjective.” Take the opportunity to say to this wealth of believers something like, “I’m WORRIED that [this world event] will mean [this result]! I need encouragement! And now, Gods promises can be shared, rather than the unending list of human perspectives.
Let’s not be fooled by thinking our own back and forth is any different than that of a flawed, and more importantly, human political machine. As Christians, I challenge you to be encouraging each other, lifting each other up in the certainty of our Father, not tearing each other down in the uncertainty of the intentions of a man or a government. If that continues to be our stage, we get nowhere. These types of world events are exactly the opportunities for believers to demonstrate that circumstances don’t rule the believer, or the hope of the believer.
Let’s stop trying to predict “things” that will happen as a result of other “things” and accusing others as supporting or not supporting that “thing.” Let’s wait, watch, and participate in how Father works through the happenings that we are a part of with him each day, and take those small opportunities to let our “adjectives” be ones that reflect him in the midst of crisis AND celebration.
Wayne,
Thank you so much for saying many of the same things I’ve been trying to say to my evangelical friends who seem to think that Obama’s election means certain doom for our country.
My husband and I attended a Democratic rally in Virginia to watch the election returns come in. When it was announced that Barack Obama had been elected president, the reaction in the room was incredibly moving. Most poignant of all was the reaction of a thin, well-dressed black lady who had been standing near us. She was overcome with emotion, covered her face with her hands, bent over as if unable to contain what was in her heart, and wept. When she recovered slightly, she hugged everyone in sight. We were in tears just seeing how overwhelmed and overjoyed she was.
I’ve heard all the reasons we shouldn’t have voted for Obama, but I couldn’t help thinking as I watched that black lady that what I was seeing was God’s justice for all the years that black people have suffered. As far as I’m concerned, even if Obama’s presidency is a disaster (and I agree with you that it’s hard to imagine how it could be any worse than Bush’s presidency), this vindication for black people is the most important thing to come out of this election.
Judy
Hi Wayne
Your article on your vote is surprising!!!! As a Canadian I quess I am not quailfied to comment on your election, but Oboma would be the last person I would expect you to vote for. Canada is thought of as a left -wing country but after yesterday we are looking right-wing. It is going to be interesting to watch how this unfolds. But I don’t see how anything good will from this administration.
Dear Wayne, Thank you so much for writing this. Our church friends have been bombarding us with the fear talk for weeks now and we have just watched in dismay as the McCain campaign stooped as low as it could go in their attacks on Obama. I personally had a real struggle over who to vote for, and up until a week and a half ago I was going to write in the constitution party candidate as a safe throw away vote. Ironically, all of the smears on Obama that people had been sending me actually caused me to reconsider and take a closer look at the facts. I reached the conclusion that most of it was falsehood and distortion (I guess being just pro-choice is not enough to get the christian right to vote against the dems, you now have to be the most pro-choice candidate ever!!). So I prayed and asked the Lord what He would have me do, and I really felt a sense of peace from Him about the decision, which was so awesome and kind of Him. I think it is more pleasing to Him to reach these decisions after seeking the truth, prayer, thinking through the issues, and then reaching a strong personal conviction, as opposed to just voting out of fear or because of what others might think. If we do this, I think it is not really so important to Him who we actually vote for. It’s kind of that whole faith versus fear thing.
So I still had some lingering doubts in the back of my mind, even on election day about my choice. The following morning, after the election was over, I asked the Lord to speak through His word, and allow me to just open to a random verse and have it be His word for me at that moment. (I don’t typically like to do this, but I felt the grace for it at that moment.) I opened to Isaiah 42 and started reading in the first verse (New Century version):
“Here is my servant, the one I support. He is the one I chose, and I am pleased with him. I have put my Spirit upon him, and he will bring justice to all nations.”
It was kind of mindblowing 🙂
Wayne, thanks for your post. I voted for McCain for typical reasons: I hope for less government control, lower taxes, life for precious unborn children… not that either candidate could have delivered. But I am mildly optimistic about the Obama presidency. I’m waiting, with the rest of the nation, for him to flesh out his promise of hope and unity. I truly hope he will be used to unite these “United States” and help us gain some positive traction abroad.
Whatever happens, it’s good to know that we can rest in the trustworthy care of a loving Father who won’t let us down.
Peace.
Well, I certainly don’t agree with who you voted for. I cannot understand how Christians can overlook the fact the he believes that Abortion is not murder? It’s one of the 10 commandments … “Do not kill”! Among many other issues … none of which consist of his skin color in the least, as I am not prejudiced, but his views on Christianity, his lucky charm monkey god he carries in his pocket, his socialistic reform and global society vision. I guess I’m finding it difficult to understand how economic and social issues could possibly over-rule morals and values to a believer in Jesus Christ?
All I can say is somebody must “have prayed that stupied prayer” for our country!!!!!!!!!
What ever it takes Lord for us to know You better. And to press us into Papa for real hope.
I do not EXPECT the laws of the land to be moral. It is shear grace when it happens.
Thanks for opening this discussion. What an opportunity to experience Body Life in the wider world of the internet. It would be wonderful if these responses could be more like Wayne’s original. That is just defend your vote. So if you voted for McCain it was a sad day for you. Let’s have a conversation about that with out diminishing the opposing viewpoint. Is there a way to let those who voted for Obama have the joy that comes with a win. And in that celebrating restrain from putting down the opposition.
No one knows the future and when we fast forward God’s never there in the picture. (from The Shack)
Thank goodness the campaining is over. This race cost ONE BILLION dollars. LORD HAVE MERCY ON US.
Hi Wayne
Your article on your vote is surprising!!!! As a Canadian I quess I am not quailfied to comment on your election, but Oboma would be the last person I would expect you to vote for. Canada is thought of as a left -wing country but after yesterday we are looking right-wing. It is going to be interesting to watch how this unfolds. But I don’t see how anything good will from this administration.
Wayne, thanks for your post. I voted for McCain for typical reasons: I hope for less government control, lower taxes, life for precious unborn children… not that either candidate could have delivered. But I am mildly optimistic about the Obama presidency. I’m waiting, with the rest of the nation, for him to flesh out his promise of hope and unity. I truly hope he will be used to unite these “United States” and help us gain some positive traction abroad.
Whatever happens, it’s good to know that we can rest in the trustworthy care of a loving Father who won’t let us down.
Peace.
Well, I certainly don’t agree with who you voted for. I cannot understand how Christians can overlook the fact the he believes that Abortion is not murder? It’s one of the 10 commandments … “Do not kill”! Among many other issues … none of which consist of his skin color in the least, as I am not prejudiced, but his views on Christianity, his lucky charm monkey god he carries in his pocket, his socialistic reform and global society vision. I guess I’m finding it difficult to understand how economic and social issues could possibly over-rule morals and values to a believer in Jesus Christ?
Haven’t read fully what Wayne has written in this post. Did read the first paragraph, then skipped down to comments…ok, so I’m just a little ADD/OC ;o)
Just wanted to say that I voted for the first time at age 18 in 1972 for Richard Nixon (won’t make that mistake again) and I’ve voted in every Presidential election since then. I have not voted for a Republican or Democratic Presidential candidate since ’92. I was seriously thinking about not voting at all this time, but felt a prompting (or a compulsion–hard to tell the difference sometimes) and so ended the morning by driving to the polling location and casting a vote for the Democrate. I feel ok about that. I especially feel better that the first Tuesday in November has come and gone.
For much of my life I was fortunate to find myself in the above average income bracket and would never have considered voting for a Democrate. Now that I’ve lived for a few years on the other side of center of the average income I find that certain issues have become more important, such as universal health coverage. Also, I find that voting for a candidate because of one single issue–their expressed sentiments as regards abortion–has been a monumental waste of time and energy on the part of Believers. Many politicians have used the abortion shiboleth as a leash for a voting block. We’ve sold ourselves much too cheaply. I solidly think that Jesus will be more visible in this country if we cease from thinking of ourselves as red or blue Americans and instead think and act like Jesus people.
V
Haven’t read fully what Wayne has written in this post. Did read the first paragraph, then skipped down to comments…ok, so I’m just a little ADD/OC ;o)
Just wanted to say that I voted for the first time at age 18 in 1972 for Richard Nixon (won’t make that mistake again) and I’ve voted in every Presidential election since then. I have not voted for a Republican or Democratic Presidential candidate since ’92. I was seriously thinking about not voting at all this time, but felt a prompting (or a compulsion–hard to tell the difference sometimes) and so ended the morning by driving to the polling location and casting a vote for the Democrate. I feel ok about that. I especially feel better that the first Tuesday in November has come and gone.
For much of my life I was fortunate to find myself in the above average income bracket and would never have considered voting for a Democrate. Now that I’ve lived for a few years on the other side of center of the average income I find that certain issues have become more important, such as universal health coverage. Also, I find that voting for a candidate because of one single issue–their expressed sentiments as regards abortion–has been a monumental waste of time and energy on the part of Believers. Many politicians have used the abortion shiboleth as a leash for a voting block. We’ve sold ourselves much too cheaply. I solidly think that Jesus will be more visible in this country if we cease from thinking of ourselves as red or blue Americans and instead think and act like Jesus people.
V
When Christians choose leadership of any kind, we have our Lord’s advice: look for the fruit. The fruit is paramount because life isn’t about what we know. Or what we think. It’s not a matter of doctrine or policy or opinion. It’s all about how we love one another, even our enemies. Even our political opponents.
Which candidate campaigned to stir up fears, and which one inspired hope?
Which candidate took the high road, and which one took the world’s worst advice?
Whose speeches implied that some parts of America are more “real” and “patriotic” than others?
Who said that we’re not red states or blue states — we are the United States of America?
Who showed exemplary self-discipline? Who is known for having a violent temper?
Which campaign was plagued with infighting?
Who unified and organized an unprecedented grass-roots constituency?
Whose supporters defiled millions of inboxes with unchecked slander?
Who refused to resort to mud-slinging?
This comparison could go on and on. The point is, one candidate’s campaign decisions clearly promoted more of the works of the flesh, while the other’s cultivated the fruit of the Spirit. For me, on that single issue, the choice was obvious.
Sadly, John McCain was not acting on his finest principles in how he chose to run his campaign. Fortunately, he recovered his honorable character on election night, and I personally am extremely thankful for his decision to show grace in defeat.
It was my privilege to vote for a man who is consistently self-controlled, kind & respectful, visionary & practical, intelligent & teachable, and simply admirable. Barack Obama has set an uncommonly high standard of how presidential candidates should treat one another.
And the fact that he’s African-American is an immeasurably wonderful gift. His presidency will forever be a powerful symbol of national repentance, redemption and reconciliation. I feel that it is an unmitigated spiritual triumph to see a man representing a historically oppressed race being lifted up to the highest office of our land.
Thanks to Wayne and all my fellow citizens who voted to give our country & our world this amazing gift. And I do appreciate all you conscientious McCain supporters, too, because your votes & voices are equally vital to our country’s well-being. Only as we look through one another’s eyes can we begin to see the real nature of our problems and their solutions.
But for now we all can agree to pray as never before that our new President will continue to grow in his faith and bring his policies more & more in line with God’s wisdom. Love always hopes, and as for me, I voted with the hope that Obama meant all the inspiring words he spoke, and the hope that he truly is seeking to lead our country toward a more perfect union.
grace & peace,
Robin
PS – Of course, regarding policy issues, there is plenty of room for loving people of good conscience to differ. Dissent is not the problem. But the tone of how we address one another reveals what’s really going on in the spirit. I hope civil decency becomes the new standard of discourse for all Americans, especially those who claim to stand up for God.
(And speaking of issues, I also hope that people who feel there is only one way to oppose abortion will rethink their views in light of the fact that some of the countries with the highest abortion rates in the world have some of the strictest anti-abortion laws, while the lowest abortion rates are in countries where it is not legally restricted. Studies have shown that economic policy affects abortion rates. Perhaps, in the battle to save lives, it’s time to try some new strategies. But whatever we think, let’s at least speak to one another with respect, goodwill and a sincere love.)
Wayne – many thanks for this heartfelt piece. As a Brit, I can honestly say that I would be very glad to have Barack Obama as my leader, and the reaction of folks around the world says that many would agree with me. I find myself warming to him profoundly.
He is humble, pragmatic, conciliatory, inspirational and many other positive traits. He is not a ‘messiah’, as only those on the right have – derisively – painted him, but he is a focus for, and indicative of something Father is doing in your country. The USA is embarking on a scary, thrilling new episode in its astonishing history, and I pray great things come from it, for all of us.
God Bless the USA, and all the earth through her!
Amen!
When Christians choose leadership of any kind, we have our Lord’s advice: look for the fruit. The fruit is paramount because life isn’t about what we know. Or what we think. It’s not a matter of doctrine or policy or opinion. It’s all about how we love one another, even our enemies. Even our political opponents.
Which candidate campaigned to stir up fears, and which one inspired hope?
Which candidate took the high road, and which one took the world’s worst advice?
Whose speeches implied that some parts of America are more “real” and “patriotic” than others?
Who said that we’re not red states or blue states — we are the United States of America?
Who showed exemplary self-discipline? Who is known for having a violent temper?
Which campaign was plagued with infighting?
Who unified and organized an unprecedented grass-roots constituency?
Whose supporters defiled millions of inboxes with unchecked slander?
Who refused to resort to mud-slinging?
This comparison could go on and on. The point is, one candidate’s campaign decisions clearly promoted more of the works of the flesh, while the other’s cultivated the fruit of the Spirit. For me, on that single issue, the choice was obvious.
Sadly, John McCain was not acting on his finest principles in how he chose to run his campaign. Fortunately, he recovered his honorable character on election night, and I personally am extremely thankful for his decision to show grace in defeat.
It was my privilege to vote for a man who is consistently self-controlled, kind & respectful, visionary & practical, intelligent & teachable, and simply admirable. Barack Obama has set an uncommonly high standard of how presidential candidates should treat one another.
And the fact that he’s African-American is an immeasurably wonderful gift. His presidency will forever be a powerful symbol of national repentance, redemption and reconciliation. I feel that it is an unmitigated spiritual triumph to see a man representing a historically oppressed race being lifted up to the highest office of our land.
Thanks to Wayne and all my fellow citizens who voted to give our country & our world this amazing gift. And I do appreciate all you conscientious McCain supporters, too, because your votes & voices are equally vital to our country’s well-being. Only as we look through one another’s eyes can we begin to see the real nature of our problems and their solutions.
But for now we all can agree to pray as never before that our new President will continue to grow in his faith and bring his policies more & more in line with God’s wisdom. Love always hopes, and as for me, I voted with the hope that Obama meant all the inspiring words he spoke, and the hope that he truly is seeking to lead our country toward a more perfect union.
grace & peace,
Robin
PS – Of course, regarding policy issues, there is plenty of room for loving people of good conscience to differ. Dissent is not the problem. But the tone of how we address one another reveals what’s really going on in the spirit. I hope civil decency becomes the new standard of discourse for all Americans, especially those who claim to stand up for God.
(And speaking of issues, I also hope that people who feel there is only one way to oppose abortion will rethink their views in light of the fact that some of the countries with the highest abortion rates in the world have some of the strictest anti-abortion laws, while the lowest abortion rates are in countries where it is not legally restricted. Studies have shown that economic policy affects abortion rates. Perhaps, in the battle to save lives, it’s time to try some new strategies. But whatever we think, let’s at least speak to one another with respect, goodwill and a sincere love.)
“some of the countries with the highest abortion rates in the world have some of the strictest anti-abortion laws, while the lowest abortion rates are in countries where it is not legally restricted.”
where law increases sin abounds all the more…………….I’m thinking that might be telling us that law is never the answer?
Wayne – many thanks for this heartfelt piece. As a Brit, I can honestly say that I would be very glad to have Barack Obama as my leader, and the reaction of folks around the world says that many would agree with me. I find myself warming to him profoundly.
He is humble, pragmatic, conciliatory, inspirational and many other positive traits. He is not a ‘messiah’, as only those on the right have – derisively – painted him, but he is a focus for, and indicative of something Father is doing in your country. The USA is embarking on a scary, thrilling new episode in its astonishing history, and I pray great things come from it, for all of us.
God Bless the USA, and all the earth through her!
Amen!
Kent .. let’s see the facts that back up your statement. Even if they are true it still doesn’t get away from the fact that the USA govt. (Democrat & Republican) and a humungous amount of “Christians” have either stood by or actively participated whilst 50 million unborn and almost born have been legally slaughtered.
Wayne and “Christians”… You belong to the Kingdom of God, you are in the world – not OF the world – what on earth are you doing voting for any man/woman?. Jesus is King and a jealous God who demands our allegiance. You cannot serve two masters!
Is the U.S. doomed under Obama – Undoubtedly so!
But had McCain won it would not have changed anything. America is doomed because it is under God’s judgement.
For those STILL stuck on “Abortion Is Murder” I would suggest this paper by Dr. Ernest L. Martin
http://www.askelm.com/doctrine/d050201.htm
Chet
Wayne,
I appreciate your honesty. There was no need to disclose who you voted for. The sad part in reading all the comments is that no one understands what is really happening. It makes no difference who is in office. Both candidates serve their employers the international bankers, not the American people. Bush put us in Iraq for their interests, not ours. The borders remain undefended for their interests not ours. Obama is going to be just as disappointing as Bush because he is going to serve his employer, too. The borders will not be defended because the banksters want the North American Union, and that is still on track. The NAU will be the end of the USA and is being achieved by the total destruction of the Federal Reserve Note buying power. The bail out of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac is only the tip of the financial iceberg. Trillions of dollars are overseas in debt to Americans that never went through congress by the Feds that is going to come back to the states and make this currency as hyperinflated as the Weimer Republic of Germany. Then Americans will accept the Amero and the Constitution will publically be a meaningless document (it is already meaningless, except Americans don’t realize it). So, Wayne, it makes no difference that you voted for Obama.
“some of the countries with the highest abortion rates in the world have some of the strictest anti-abortion laws, while the lowest abortion rates are in countries where it is not legally restricted.”
where law increases sin abounds all the more…………….I’m thinking that might be telling us that law is never the answer?
My late father-in-law said (something to the effect) that when you declare your stance on political issues (et al) you polarize people, and thus reduce your chances to convey your essential message to a whole group of people that would have listened had you not been so anxious to share your political opinion. I came to this blog and Lifestream and stayed because I began to see Father as he truly is. God has been using these websites, blogs, and podcasts to open my eyes to his beauty, a beauty that rises above petty political ideas. That vision is scarred by this polarization of God’s people that I now see here. I expect to get my political opinions from various pundants in other sectors. I didn’t expect it here. I am very disappointed.
Kent .. let’s see the facts that back up your statement. Even if they are true it still doesn’t get away from the fact that the USA govt. (Democrat & Republican) and a humungous amount of “Christians” have either stood by or actively participated whilst 50 million unborn and almost born have been legally slaughtered.
Wayne and “Christians”… You belong to the Kingdom of God, you are in the world – not OF the world – what on earth are you doing voting for any man/woman?. Jesus is King and a jealous God who demands our allegiance. You cannot serve two masters!
Is the U.S. doomed under Obama – Undoubtedly so!
But had McCain won it would not have changed anything. America is doomed because it is under God’s judgement.
For those STILL stuck on “Abortion Is Murder” I would suggest this paper by Dr. Ernest L. Martin
http://www.askelm.com/doctrine/d050201.htm
Chet
Wayne,
I appreciate your honesty. There was no need to disclose who you voted for. The sad part in reading all the comments is that no one understands what is really happening. It makes no difference who is in office. Both candidates serve their employers the international bankers, not the American people. Bush put us in Iraq for their interests, not ours. The borders remain undefended for their interests not ours. Obama is going to be just as disappointing as Bush because he is going to serve his employer, too. The borders will not be defended because the banksters want the North American Union, and that is still on track. The NAU will be the end of the USA and is being achieved by the total destruction of the Federal Reserve Note buying power. The bail out of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac is only the tip of the financial iceberg. Trillions of dollars are overseas in debt to Americans that never went through congress by the Feds that is going to come back to the states and make this currency as hyperinflated as the Weimer Republic of Germany. Then Americans will accept the Amero and the Constitution will publically be a meaningless document (it is already meaningless, except Americans don’t realize it). So, Wayne, it makes no difference that you voted for Obama.
Wayne,
First of all I love your blog and writings too much let how you voted to get in the way of being blessed by you. However, I respectively disagree with your reasons for voting for Obama.
As far as the fear thing. Fear has been the dogma of democratic policy for a long time. Did I vote for McCain out of fear for Obama. I don’t think I did. I trust God. Am I concerned for the American way of life under Obama. Most certainly. His worldview is not what I consider biblical. However, neither is McCains.
I agree with your statement about 8 years of republican arrogance etc., and maybe this is what the republican party needed to happen, in order to clean out what we call in Texas, the RINO’s (Republican In Name Only). It wasn’t conservative policies that failed, it was the failure to implement them. It was compromising with the left that failed. Liberal, big government policies will never work. Never have, never will. It was the liberal, big government welfare policies of the sixties that created this whole mess in the first place.
Do we really need to build credibility abroad at the expense of our founding principals? I don’t really care what Europeans think of the US. I don’t want to go the way of socialist Europe. Europe has totally forsaken Christianity. Try educating your children at home in Germany and you will find yourself in jail or worse yet, your children can be taken from you. This has happened. I was talking to a man who immigrated to the US from Belgian the other day. He has been in the US for a while. He said many Americans don’t understand what socialized medicine and government controlled industry does to a country. It does not work. He has lived it. Talk to Canadians who live in the US; they will say the same thing. That is why they live here.
I certainly understand why people had a hard time voting for McCain, but I don’t understand evangelicals voting for Obama. How can Christians support a man, that sat under a man, that preaches black liberation theology. BLT no more preaches Jesus than Mormonism does. It is more in line and as divisive as Islam. If Obama sat for twenty years under that teaching, there is no way that is not a part of his world view. Reconciliation of the races will not come out of that.
I believe too many Americans “drank the kool- aide”. I believe Obama is an empty suit with a lot of smooth rhetoric. Only time will tell who the real Obama is. He has all the making of a true socialist. More government is not the answer. I make no apologies for believing in small government, free enterprise, low taxes. Can Obama bring this country together? Maybe, but in the name of what. Big government? We all know that Jesus is the answer. Not a man.
I certainly believe God set Obama up as the President. Could he be worse than Bush? Absolutely. Could anyone imagine that seven years after 9/11 that there would not have been another terrorist attack on our soil. Have I lost any freedoms since then. At the airport, for sure. But it was those very freedoms that allowed 9/11 to occur in the first place. I don’t buy the loss of freedom argument.
Do I rejoice for black Americans. Not really. It is an empty rejoicing. I have no problems with a black man being President, but I am to rejoice in the Lord, not a man. And black Americans need to do the same thing.
The way to love one another is not to hide from each other. It’s to embrace our brothers & sisters with the unconditional love our Father gives us. We don’t need a lot of taboos. We don’t need to fear being honest and sharing from the heart on any topic. We just need to value each other beyond our differing opinions. It isn’t our ideas that make us precious in Papa’s sight. If we stop measuring one another by standards God doesn’t use, and start accepting each other as is, we won’t have to worry about being polarized.
Sorry Wayne,
I hit the wrong button before I was finished. I struggled immensely over this post. I did not realize how divided the Body of Christ was over this election. It certainly has made me think. I could say more.
I was mulling over my last paragraph when I meant to hit the preview button. I was thinking of a better way to say what I felt. It is so hard to make your heart known in a few sentences. I know I might sound insensitive to blacks, but that is far from the truth.
The point is, I have great empathy for blacks, if only I had time to share some of my past history. I do not rejoice in anyone thinking that because a black man will be the President of the US, that now their problems are solved. Our hearts must be turned toward the Father who loves us so much He sent His only Son to set us free. So it will be a shallow rejoicing if mens hearts are not turned towards the Father. Obama nor any man will set the captives free.
Many blessings,
Jack Watkins
It’s both fun and shocking to watch Americans act and react during the presidential election (from across the big sea, The Netherlands actually).
When you compare the number of reactions at this post and the number of reactions to Wayne’s even more meaningful posts (like, about our loving Father), it speaks volumes to me.
My late father-in-law said (something to the effect) that when you declare your stance on political issues (et al) you polarize people, and thus reduce your chances to convey your essential message to a whole group of people that would have listened had you not been so anxious to share your political opinion. I came to this blog and Lifestream and stayed because I began to see Father as he truly is. God has been using these websites, blogs, and podcasts to open my eyes to his beauty, a beauty that rises above petty political ideas. That vision is scarred by this polarization of God’s people that I now see here. I expect to get my political opinions from various pundants in other sectors. I didn’t expect it here. I am very disappointed.
Congratulations Obama!
One huge step forward for the civil rights of African-Americans.
One huge step backward for the civil rights of the unborn.
Jesse Jackson shed tears of joy at seeing the first black President.
My spirit wept in grief for the untold number of babies to be legally murdered.
God has given us a king that America wanted.
Have mercy upon O Lord!
I sure hope you read my comment, Wayne. I am mostly upset that you have chosen to belittle those of us who did not vote for Barack Obama, by saying that we just don’t know better, and that we are fear driven, and that if we only voted because of abortion and gay rights, that your choice won’t “make sense” to us. I am disappointed by that, Wayne, most of all.
You have painted with a very broad brush your brothers and sisters in the Lord with whom you disagree. And it’s an ugly color. I am greatly saddened by that.
Maybe it never occurred to you that those of us who voted against Barack Obama did so because we believe in the higher ideals of freedom and liberty that our founding fathers gave so much for. The country that they worked so hard to establish valued the principles of small government and liberty. It’s not about abortion and gay rights. Those are trees in the forest.
Your “I’m smarter than all of you” approach to this is disheartening. I am surprised. I didn’t expect it from you. And I’m hurt.
OK, so I’m pretty sure you won’t read this, but at least I was able to express a small part of the anguish I am feeling.
From someone who actually doesn’t believe Jesus is a white, middle-class Republican.
your sister in Jesus
Tina
Wayne,
First of all I love your blog and writings too much let how you voted to get in the way of being blessed by you. However, I respectively disagree with your reasons for voting for Obama.
As far as the fear thing. Fear has been the dogma of democratic policy for a long time. Did I vote for McCain out of fear for Obama. I don’t think I did. I trust God. Am I concerned for the American way of life under Obama. Most certainly. His worldview is not what I consider biblical. However, neither is McCains.
I agree with your statement about 8 years of republican arrogance etc., and maybe this is what the republican party needed to happen, in order to clean out what we call in Texas, the RINO’s (Republican In Name Only). It wasn’t conservative policies that failed, it was the failure to implement them. It was compromising with the left that failed. Liberal, big government policies will never work. Never have, never will. It was the liberal, big government welfare policies of the sixties that created this whole mess in the first place.
Do we really need to build credibility abroad at the expense of our founding principals? I don’t really care what Europeans think of the US. I don’t want to go the way of socialist Europe. Europe has totally forsaken Christianity. Try educating your children at home in Germany and you will find yourself in jail or worse yet, your children can be taken from you. This has happened. I was talking to a man who immigrated to the US from Belgian the other day. He has been in the US for a while. He said many Americans don’t understand what socialized medicine and government controlled industry does to a country. It does not work. He has lived it. Talk to Canadians who live in the US; they will say the same thing. That is why they live here.
I certainly understand why people had a hard time voting for McCain, but I don’t understand evangelicals voting for Obama. How can Christians support a man, that sat under a man, that preaches black liberation theology. BLT no more preaches Jesus than Mormonism does. It is more in line and as divisive as Islam. If Obama sat for twenty years under that teaching, there is no way that is not a part of his world view. Reconciliation of the races will not come out of that.
I believe too many Americans “drank the kool- aide”. I believe Obama is an empty suit with a lot of smooth rhetoric. Only time will tell who the real Obama is. He has all the making of a true socialist. More government is not the answer. I make no apologies for believing in small government, free enterprise, low taxes. Can Obama bring this country together? Maybe, but in the name of what. Big government? We all know that Jesus is the answer. Not a man.
I certainly believe God set Obama up as the President. Could he be worse than Bush? Absolutely. Could anyone imagine that seven years after 9/11 that there would not have been another terrorist attack on our soil. Have I lost any freedoms since then. At the airport, for sure. But it was those very freedoms that allowed 9/11 to occur in the first place. I don’t buy the loss of freedom argument.
Do I rejoice for black Americans. Not really. It is an empty rejoicing. I have no problems with a black man being President, but I am to rejoice in the Lord, not a man. And black Americans need to do the same thing.
The way to love one another is not to hide from each other. It’s to embrace our brothers & sisters with the unconditional love our Father gives us. We don’t need a lot of taboos. We don’t need to fear being honest and sharing from the heart on any topic. We just need to value each other beyond our differing opinions. It isn’t our ideas that make us precious in Papa’s sight. If we stop measuring one another by standards God doesn’t use, and start accepting each other as is, we won’t have to worry about being polarized.
Sorry Wayne,
I hit the wrong button before I was finished. I struggled immensely over this post. I did not realize how divided the Body of Christ was over this election. It certainly has made me think. I could say more.
I was mulling over my last paragraph when I meant to hit the preview button. I was thinking of a better way to say what I felt. It is so hard to make your heart known in a few sentences. I know I might sound insensitive to blacks, but that is far from the truth.
The point is, I have great empathy for blacks, if only I had time to share some of my past history. I do not rejoice in anyone thinking that because a black man will be the President of the US, that now their problems are solved. Our hearts must be turned toward the Father who loves us so much He sent His only Son to set us free. So it will be a shallow rejoicing if mens hearts are not turned towards the Father. Obama nor any man will set the captives free.
Many blessings,
Jack Watkins
Wayne, I too share your displeasure with the Republican Party. I am a great admirer of Ronald Reagan, and I realize that the GOP no longer embodies what he stood for.
But as someone who lives in the city of Chicago, I fear you will be sorely disappointed with Obama. I know that the greed, corruption, arrogance, and even jack-bootedness that characterizes Chicago politics will now infest Washington.
If go to Hyde Park, where Obama lives, you might see an interesting vignette: Multi-million dollar homes of all the rich limousine liberals, only a few blocks from poor, broken-down, drug and crime ridden neighborhoods. It is a bit like the feudal lord’s monstrous castle sitting on a hill, perched above the hovels of his serfs. Chicago politicians have made a game of promoting poverty in huge swaths of the city in order present themselves as the cure to it, and provider to the poor via welfare payments.
The policies of Chicago politicians like Obama have made my city the murder capital of the country. We had more people die from gun violence in Chicago in the past six months than have died in Iraq. The unfortunate fate of Jennifer Hudson’s young nephew is something that happens daily in my city, but doesn’t get national attention until it happens to a celebrity family.
After decades of control by Chicago Democrats, the South Side of my city is still a sad, tragic, and depressing sight. It breaks my heart to see the unemployed, drug addicted, and homeless wandering the filthy streets aimlessly, while violent gangs roam free and oppress the law-abiding. But Chicago Democrats like Obama have done nothing to clean up the South Side because cleaning up the South Side would create enterprise, elevate the economic well-being of the citizens there, and thus turn loyal and blind Daley voters into educated middle-class swing voters who hold politicians accountable. Obama has been an intimate part of this racket.
Chicago recently entered the competition to hold the 2016 Summer Olympics. The Chicago system is so corrupt that my friends and I joked that, with the International Olympic Committee banning bribery (“gifts”) following the Salt Lake City fiasco, they took away from us the only way we know how to do business here. The corruption here is so rampant that it is a frequent joke in the press and the radio.
Now, after Obama received more campaign contributions per year of service in the Senate from Fannie and Freddie than anyone else in that body, he appointed Rahm Emanuel to be his Chief of Staff, a man who served on the board of Freddie Mac while it was engaging in what was later found to be massive accounting fraud. This was not an accident. This is how politics is done here in the Windy City. You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours. Obama was never above this. He is only human, after all.
I am sorry to say that you will soon see that the glitz and glamor of the Obama campaign was cheap gilt covering up an unfortunate lack of vision for the country.
It’s both fun and shocking to watch Americans act and react during the presidential election (from across the big sea, The Netherlands actually).
When you compare the number of reactions at this post and the number of reactions to Wayne’s even more meaningful posts (like, about our loving Father), it speaks volumes to me.
Tina,
I think you TOTALLY missed Wayne’s point. He wasn’t belittling those belivers who “voted against Obama”. Could you show where he actually said or implied that? In fact, Wayne DID mention that his vote “wouldn’t sit well with many of his evangelical friends”, one of whom sent an email of a “dream he had of Obama plotting with Satan to destroy the United States.” He also didn’t paint a brush on ALL believers by lumping them all in the same boat as fearful. He only was referring to those individuals who emailed him expressing their fears and Wayne was disappointed that these people let fear of Obama overwhelm their Faith in God. That faith is “the higher ideals of freedom and liberty” That only our Heavenly Father can reveal to those of us “called according to His purpose.
Chet
Congratulations Obama!
One huge step forward for the civil rights of African-Americans.
One huge step backward for the civil rights of the unborn.
Jesse Jackson shed tears of joy at seeing the first black President.
My spirit wept in grief for the untold number of babies to be legally murdered.
God has given us a king that America wanted.
Have mercy upon O Lord!
I sure hope you read my comment, Wayne. I am mostly upset that you have chosen to belittle those of us who did not vote for Barack Obama, by saying that we just don’t know better, and that we are fear driven, and that if we only voted because of abortion and gay rights, that your choice won’t “make sense” to us. I am disappointed by that, Wayne, most of all.
You have painted with a very broad brush your brothers and sisters in the Lord with whom you disagree. And it’s an ugly color. I am greatly saddened by that.
Maybe it never occurred to you that those of us who voted against Barack Obama did so because we believe in the higher ideals of freedom and liberty that our founding fathers gave so much for. The country that they worked so hard to establish valued the principles of small government and liberty. It’s not about abortion and gay rights. Those are trees in the forest.
Your “I’m smarter than all of you” approach to this is disheartening. I am surprised. I didn’t expect it from you. And I’m hurt.
OK, so I’m pretty sure you won’t read this, but at least I was able to express a small part of the anguish I am feeling.
From someone who actually doesn’t believe Jesus is a white, middle-class Republican.
your sister in Jesus
Tina
Mike, that quote came from someone who posted above me and I was just responding to the reality that law is not the answer….there is no political solution to the many injustices humanity faces and often it seems we create even more in the effort to solve some.
Wayne, I too share your displeasure with the Republican Party. I am a great admirer of Ronald Reagan, and I realize that the GOP no longer embodies what he stood for.
But as someone who lives in the city of Chicago, I fear you will be sorely disappointed with Obama. I know that the greed, corruption, arrogance, and even jack-bootedness that characterizes Chicago politics will now infest Washington.
If go to Hyde Park, where Obama lives, you might see an interesting vignette: Multi-million dollar homes of all the rich limousine liberals, only a few blocks from poor, broken-down, drug and crime ridden neighborhoods. It is a bit like the feudal lord’s monstrous castle sitting on a hill, perched above the hovels of his serfs. Chicago politicians have made a game of promoting poverty in huge swaths of the city in order present themselves as the cure to it, and provider to the poor via welfare payments.
The policies of Chicago politicians like Obama have made my city the murder capital of the country. We had more people die from gun violence in Chicago in the past six months than have died in Iraq. The unfortunate fate of Jennifer Hudson’s young nephew is something that happens daily in my city, but doesn’t get national attention until it happens to a celebrity family.
After decades of control by Chicago Democrats, the South Side of my city is still a sad, tragic, and depressing sight. It breaks my heart to see the unemployed, drug addicted, and homeless wandering the filthy streets aimlessly, while violent gangs roam free and oppress the law-abiding. But Chicago Democrats like Obama have done nothing to clean up the South Side because cleaning up the South Side would create enterprise, elevate the economic well-being of the citizens there, and thus turn loyal and blind Daley voters into educated middle-class swing voters who hold politicians accountable. Obama has been an intimate part of this racket.
Chicago recently entered the competition to hold the 2016 Summer Olympics. The Chicago system is so corrupt that my friends and I joked that, with the International Olympic Committee banning bribery (“gifts”) following the Salt Lake City fiasco, they took away from us the only way we know how to do business here. The corruption here is so rampant that it is a frequent joke in the press and the radio.
Now, after Obama received more campaign contributions per year of service in the Senate from Fannie and Freddie than anyone else in that body, he appointed Rahm Emanuel to be his Chief of Staff, a man who served on the board of Freddie Mac while it was engaging in what was later found to be massive accounting fraud. This was not an accident. This is how politics is done here in the Windy City. You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours. Obama was never above this. He is only human, after all.
I am sorry to say that you will soon see that the glitz and glamor of the Obama campaign was cheap gilt covering up an unfortunate lack of vision for the country.
I don’t get this whole fear vs. love thing. Honestly, are you commenters saying that just because someone talks about love they’re good, and because someone else talks about what you say is “fear” they’re bad? That’s not logical.
Tina,
I think you TOTALLY missed Wayne’s point. He wasn’t belittling those belivers who “voted against Obama”. Could you show where he actually said or implied that? In fact, Wayne DID mention that his vote “wouldn’t sit well with many of his evangelical friends”, one of whom sent an email of a “dream he had of Obama plotting with Satan to destroy the United States.” He also didn’t paint a brush on ALL believers by lumping them all in the same boat as fearful. He only was referring to those individuals who emailed him expressing their fears and Wayne was disappointed that these people let fear of Obama overwhelm their Faith in God. That faith is “the higher ideals of freedom and liberty” That only our Heavenly Father can reveal to those of us “called according to His purpose.
Chet
See this page: http://www.matthew25dev.com/plpo/plpo_abortionfacts.htm
Mike, that quote came from someone who posted above me and I was just responding to the reality that law is not the answer….there is no political solution to the many injustices humanity faces and often it seems we create even more in the effort to solve some.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of Earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
Hi Wayne,
I voted for Obama as well here in a state that went McCain all the way—we need something new. Anyway, all my Bible-belted, evangelical, conservative relatives are convinced that America is going to hell in a hand basket because of Obama’s win. They are convinced of America’s sin by choosing a democrat for president.
They seem to believe that leaders get elected to office according to America’s level of holiness at the time. The very ones who base their institutional church mindset on Paul’s pastorals forget Romans 13:1 which says: “Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.” If this is so, who’s in control of elections? The will of the people or God?
Anyway, I enjoyed your comments at the beginning of the podcast and your bravery for not only voting your conscience, but for standing up for your convictions in the onslaught of evangelicalism’s moral high ground. ONLY IN AMERICA!
1 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. Romans 13:1-7 (NLT)
You know, it wasn’t just the republicans who got this country in the trouble it is in. This nation has been in debt up to it’s eyeballs for many, many years and democrats have been there along with the republicans doing so. It’s not just the President of the United States that make the decisions on these things. EVERYONE is to blame for the mess we are in. Like Jesus said when they brought the woman caught in adultry (and by the way, where was the man she was caught with???) ……
He who has NO sin, cast the first stone?
We all need to focus on what the bible tells us and pray for our leaders and those in charge. Respect who is in office and pray, pray, pray. Heck, it used to be that if someone were to talk like some do about our leaders and commander in chief, they would have been brought up for treason charges and hanged!
Some of us may not like what has happened and who got in office but there is not a thing we can do about it, If you didn’t vote then don’t complain about it and if you did vote … good just pray that God’s will be done. Spread love not hate.
And let’s not make a big issue out of what a HISTORICAL MOMENT this has been. It is already getting old. Every election is historical this one shouldn’t be any more monumental.
Let’s keep it One Nation Under God
I don’t get this whole fear vs. love thing. Honestly, are you commenters saying that just because someone talks about love they’re good, and because someone else talks about what you say is “fear” they’re bad? That’s not logical.
Im sorry but you cant just open to a random scripture and say it was from God even if you did pray that way before opening it!
I believe that God’s Will will be done but I don’t believe he is going to do it through the election. Pamela has a lot of wisdom on this issue and maybe others need to open their hearts and listen to what she is really saying. This election is not going to heal any hurts or oppression that has been so ingrained in the minds of african americans for years and years. Most of them don’t want to let it go. Why can’t everyone see that ALL races are being put down and oppressed in this country, not just one! I know many whites and spanish who cannot get into colleges or get jobs because they don’ have the money to back them or they can’t get job because they aren’t bi-lingual. We are all getting hit by the racism bug! Everyone needs to speak the language of america and that is English! Lets quit crying wolf and live a quiet, peaceable life for pete’s sake.
Just remember what the book of Revelation is all about. It will get worse before Jesus comes back and no amount of praying will stop the plan God has had from the beginning of time. It will go down as it is written in the last book and guess what? As a follower of Christ WE WIN because HE wins!
See this page: http://www.matthew25dev.com/plpo/plpo_abortionfacts.htm
The sad thing is how little we really listen to one another. As I read over all these comments again, I’m really seeing how much pain & disappointment and anger that many of us are feeling after this election. So I’d just like to take a moment to acknowledge that, and to drop my own “victory march” attitude long enough to honor the feelings of my sisters & brothers who are experiencing this election as a terrible loss. (And those who don’t care about such worldly matters, please just bear with the rest of us.)
As we all seek to live out our faith in this world as citizens, neighbors, friends & family, we know nothing we do or don’t do, whether public or private, can thwart God’s gracious plans.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
I’m so grateful we know a God who is benevolent and compassionate.
Robin
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of Earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
Hi Wayne,
I voted for Obama as well here in a state that went McCain all the way—we need something new. Anyway, all my Bible-belted, evangelical, conservative relatives are convinced that America is going to hell in a hand basket because of Obama’s win. They are convinced of America’s sin by choosing a democrat for president.
They seem to believe that leaders get elected to office according to America’s level of holiness at the time. The very ones who base their institutional church mindset on Paul’s pastorals forget Romans 13:1 which says: “Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.” If this is so, who’s in control of elections? The will of the people or God?
Anyway, I enjoyed your comments at the beginning of the podcast and your bravery for not only voting your conscience, but for standing up for your convictions in the onslaught of evangelicalism’s moral high ground. ONLY IN AMERICA!
1 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. Romans 13:1-7 (NLT)
You know, it wasn’t just the republicans who got this country in the trouble it is in. This nation has been in debt up to it’s eyeballs for many, many years and democrats have been there along with the republicans doing so. It’s not just the President of the United States that make the decisions on these things. EVERYONE is to blame for the mess we are in. Like Jesus said when they brought the woman caught in adultry (and by the way, where was the man she was caught with???) ……
He who has NO sin, cast the first stone?
We all need to focus on what the bible tells us and pray for our leaders and those in charge. Respect who is in office and pray, pray, pray. Heck, it used to be that if someone were to talk like some do about our leaders and commander in chief, they would have been brought up for treason charges and hanged!
Some of us may not like what has happened and who got in office but there is not a thing we can do about it, If you didn’t vote then don’t complain about it and if you did vote … good just pray that God’s will be done. Spread love not hate.
And let’s not make a big issue out of what a HISTORICAL MOMENT this has been. It is already getting old. Every election is historical this one shouldn’t be any more monumental.
Let’s keep it One Nation Under God
Im sorry but you cant just open to a random scripture and say it was from God even if you did pray that way before opening it!
I believe that God’s Will will be done but I don’t believe he is going to do it through the election. Pamela has a lot of wisdom on this issue and maybe others need to open their hearts and listen to what she is really saying. This election is not going to heal any hurts or oppression that has been so ingrained in the minds of african americans for years and years. Most of them don’t want to let it go. Why can’t everyone see that ALL races are being put down and oppressed in this country, not just one! I know many whites and spanish who cannot get into colleges or get jobs because they don’ have the money to back them or they can’t get job because they aren’t bi-lingual. We are all getting hit by the racism bug! Everyone needs to speak the language of america and that is English! Lets quit crying wolf and live a quiet, peaceable life for pete’s sake.
Just remember what the book of Revelation is all about. It will get worse before Jesus comes back and no amount of praying will stop the plan God has had from the beginning of time. It will go down as it is written in the last book and guess what? As a follower of Christ WE WIN because HE wins!
The sad thing is how little we really listen to one another. As I read over all these comments again, I’m really seeing how much pain & disappointment and anger that many of us are feeling after this election. So I’d just like to take a moment to acknowledge that, and to drop my own “victory march” attitude long enough to honor the feelings of my sisters & brothers who are experiencing this election as a terrible loss. (And those who don’t care about such worldly matters, please just bear with the rest of us.)
As we all seek to live out our faith in this world as citizens, neighbors, friends & family, we know nothing we do or don’t do, whether public or private, can thwart God’s gracious plans.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
I’m so grateful we know a God who is benevolent and compassionate.
Robin
Kent,
Sorry, I should have said I get your point. I missed who made the quote, should have queried them!
The qoute just doesn’t go with the little I know on the subject. Wonder if clubbing baby seals has similar backing?
Wayne,
Forgiveme for using your blog as email. I’m finished now.
Eight years of Clinton and eight years of Bush have truly put this country in the current demise it finds itself in. Revenge voting cannot solve anything. Will we ever, ever get beyond this skin color thing…?
Kent,
Sorry, I should have said I get your point. I missed who made the quote, should have queried them!
The qoute just doesn’t go with the little I know on the subject. Wonder if clubbing baby seals has similar backing?
Wayne,
Forgiveme for using your blog as email. I’m finished now.
Eight years of Clinton and eight years of Bush have truly put this country in the current demise it finds itself in. Revenge voting cannot solve anything. Will we ever, ever get beyond this skin color thing…?
Many of us – not all, but many – followed the campaigns with our emotions. I know this because I observed and listened to myself, my friends, sisters and brothers in Him, complete strangers and newscasts from around the country. It appears that many of us – not all, but many – saw and heard with our emotions. It also appears that many of us – not all, but many – voted with our emotions.
Many of us who name His name – not all, but many – sought Him in the process and sought to follow His voice in our voting or not voting. Many of us – etc, etc – believe with all our hearts that we ‘heard’ His heart and voted or didn’t vote accordingly.
I know it is early on in the process, what with the elections only a few days ago, but I have been attempting to sort it all out for myself – hopefully with His help. I do know that what I want with my emotions can color my hearing His heart in a matter. I do know – from my own long journey in Him – that I ‘want’ His will to be mine in certain instances – I ‘feel’ that His will must be the same as mine. I may disguise it, deny it, rationalize it with all sorts of spiritual-sounding words, but bottom line, that is the truth of the matter.
There is nothing wrong with emotions. He gave us the ability to feel and to feel deeply about those issues, people, circumstances we believe to be important. To me, the place we find our country in today is important. The future of our country is important – to me. Why we got here and where we go from here is important – to me. I’m sort of a political junky. This can get me into trouble, because I find it very easy to get my attention onto the temporal and not so much on the eternal. I know this about myself – so please don’t feel inclined to tell me.
I know that my emotions can greatly influence my judgement and my decisions. More than a few of us are excited out of our minds that our candidate ‘won’. More than a few of us are suffering from what feels like a gut-punch because our candidate ‘lost’.
Where am I going with this? Not sure. Just ruminating as I read all the posts here; listen to my friends, family, neighbors; and seek His face in it all.
One of the ‘above all important things’ for me is that I don’t do or say anything to patronize, belittle or negate what another is saying, feeling or understanding about this election. Another – and truly bottom line – ‘above all important things’ for me is that I am constrained by the love of Christ for myself, my family, friends, brothers, sisters, neighbors, country – and even for the president-elect.
Kelly
Many of us – not all, but many – followed the campaigns with our emotions. I know this because I observed and listened to myself, my friends, sisters and brothers in Him, complete strangers and newscasts from around the country. It appears that many of us – not all, but many – saw and heard with our emotions. It also appears that many of us – not all, but many – voted with our emotions.
Many of us who name His name – not all, but many – sought Him in the process and sought to follow His voice in our voting or not voting. Many of us – etc, etc – believe with all our hearts that we ‘heard’ His heart and voted or didn’t vote accordingly.
I know it is early on in the process, what with the elections only a few days ago, but I have been attempting to sort it all out for myself – hopefully with His help. I do know that what I want with my emotions can color my hearing His heart in a matter. I do know – from my own long journey in Him – that I ‘want’ His will to be mine in certain instances – I ‘feel’ that His will must be the same as mine. I may disguise it, deny it, rationalize it with all sorts of spiritual-sounding words, but bottom line, that is the truth of the matter.
There is nothing wrong with emotions. He gave us the ability to feel and to feel deeply about those issues, people, circumstances we believe to be important. To me, the place we find our country in today is important. The future of our country is important – to me. Why we got here and where we go from here is important – to me. I’m sort of a political junky. This can get me into trouble, because I find it very easy to get my attention onto the temporal and not so much on the eternal. I know this about myself – so please don’t feel inclined to tell me.
I know that my emotions can greatly influence my judgement and my decisions. More than a few of us are excited out of our minds that our candidate ‘won’. More than a few of us are suffering from what feels like a gut-punch because our candidate ‘lost’.
Where am I going with this? Not sure. Just ruminating as I read all the posts here; listen to my friends, family, neighbors; and seek His face in it all.
One of the ‘above all important things’ for me is that I don’t do or say anything to patronize, belittle or negate what another is saying, feeling or understanding about this election. Another – and truly bottom line – ‘above all important things’ for me is that I am constrained by the love of Christ for myself, my family, friends, brothers, sisters, neighbors, country – and even for the president-elect.
Kelly
Hey, this is quite a cacophony of responses back and forth and I’m not sure anymore who is talking to whom. But I did want to pop in here and say that my original comment, XLIX, was pretty defensive and kind of a reaction to some things I thought I’d read in Wayne’s post. Upon further reflection, and a really nice email conversation, I can see that I was wrong in my interpretation of the post. I just wanted to publicly say sorry for that and mention that I think Wayne is a great Christian brother who really walks the walk.
Tina
Tina,
Earlier in this thread, you asked someone to clarify the comments regarding love vs fear.
I think your attitude in your last post really explains love better than I could anyway. Thank you for sharing a love that does not depend on whether we agree or disagree about different philosophies. It is this love that transcends our differences, that moves us to affirm and embrace each other regardless of our diverse politics, that God will use to unite His people.
You are such a blessing,
Robin
Well done Wayne and Sara. Congratulation to President Elect Obama and welcome back USA! Where have you been these past eight years?
Seriously, the main is not the Christ or the Anti-Christ. But his election does represent a vote for hope rather than fear. there seemed to be a great level of engagment from the people (on both sides of the campaign) which is a good thing in my opinion.
Hey, this is quite a cacophony of responses back and forth and I’m not sure anymore who is talking to whom. But I did want to pop in here and say that my original comment, XLIX, was pretty defensive and kind of a reaction to some things I thought I’d read in Wayne’s post. Upon further reflection, and a really nice email conversation, I can see that I was wrong in my interpretation of the post. I just wanted to publicly say sorry for that and mention that I think Wayne is a great Christian brother who really walks the walk.
Tina
Tina,
Earlier in this thread, you asked someone to clarify the comments regarding love vs fear.
I think your attitude in your last post really explains love better than I could anyway. Thank you for sharing a love that does not depend on whether we agree or disagree about different philosophies. It is this love that transcends our differences, that moves us to affirm and embrace each other regardless of our diverse politics, that God will use to unite His people.
You are such a blessing,
Robin
Well done Wayne and Sara. Congratulation to President Elect Obama and welcome back USA! Where have you been these past eight years?
Seriously, the main is not the Christ or the Anti-Christ. But his election does represent a vote for hope rather than fear. there seemed to be a great level of engagment from the people (on both sides of the campaign) which is a good thing in my opinion.
Wayne
Reading this blog entry reminded me of some comments you’ve made about needing an “Eat my flesh and drink my blood” moment for followers looking to you for answers to what only a relationship with Jesus can provide. Perhaps this is that. I know in our little group,there’s one who your blog entry had that affect on. She’ been going through, rather systematically, all the archive podcasts and being washed over with a new sense of freedom–which is a good thing at least in my opinion. Now, I’m thinkin, she’s wondering whether or not listening to your conversations isn’t going to lead her astray. Probably a good thing too, I think.
Wayne
Reading this blog entry reminded me of some comments you’ve made about needing an “Eat my flesh and drink my blood” moment for followers looking to you for answers to what only a relationship with Jesus can provide. Perhaps this is that. I know in our little group,there’s one who your blog entry had that affect on. She’ been going through, rather systematically, all the archive podcasts and being washed over with a new sense of freedom–which is a good thing at least in my opinion. Now, I’m thinkin, she’s wondering whether or not listening to your conversations isn’t going to lead her astray. Probably a good thing too, I think.
Thanks Wayne and Sara! I have to say when Jason told me about your vote and post, I was gleaming like a child who was just given a puppy (yes that’s an Obama reference) Jason and I have been attacked over the last 20 months by other believers because of our support of Obama, These attacks have only intensified since Nov 4th. Posts like yours make me smile, feel loved and remind me I AM apart of God’s family. Thanks again
Thanks Wayne and Sara! I have to say when Jason told me about your vote and post, I was gleaming like a child who was just given a puppy (yes that’s an Obama reference) Jason and I have been attacked over the last 20 months by other believers because of our support of Obama, These attacks have only intensified since Nov 4th. Posts like yours make me smile, feel loved and remind me I AM apart of God’s family. Thanks again
Greg Boyd’s blog post was titled All Politics Aside—This is a Good Day. Many people are beginning to look at these things of “one or two issue politics” much differently. You can read it here:
http://www.gregboyd.org/blog/all-politics-aside-today-is-a-good-day/
Greg Boyd’s blog post was titled All Politics Aside—This is a Good Day. Many people are beginning to look at these things of “one or two issue politics” much differently. You can read it here:
http://www.gregboyd.org/blog/all-politics-aside-today-is-a-good-day/
I don’t believe I could be more disappointed in you. I see so much hypocrisy in what you wrote. Count me out as one of your faithful readers – you are on the wrong side here.
I don’t believe I could be more disappointed in you. I see so much hypocrisy in what you wrote. Count me out as one of your faithful readers – you are on the wrong side here.
It seems to me that what Wayne is articulating is that he observed both candidates, thought and prayed about each one, and made his decision based on which candidate he felt was more qualified. He expressed that he appreciated Obama’s tone versus McCain’s and felt the Republican party had lost touch with the people (which, in his opinion, is why they lost the election). What is fantastic about this is that he has done what everyone should be doing…looking at each candidate and voting on their merits.
If you feel that his vote for Obama is an indictment of your vote for McCain, I would ask this: Did you vote for McCain because you felt he was the best candidate to run the country for the next 4-8 years? If so, then Wayne’s opinion shouldn’t bother you. You voted your conscience, and you have nothing to apologize for. If you voted for McCain because you think a vote for Obama is a vote against the Lord (or just as bad, that a vote for any Democrat is a vote for “baby-killing homosexuals”) then I would humbly submit that you may be a victim of special interest groups who are paid to prey on people’s fears of candidates and the future of our “culture”. These people count on Christians not to think for themselves and to vote for an entire political party all the time based on the false belief that that party unilaterally represents the moral high ground. It is too bad that so many Christians feel this way, because they cannot see to the heart of an individual, only to the bland and restrictive boxes they have placed people in.
It seems to me that what Wayne is articulating is that he observed both candidates, thought and prayed about each one, and made his decision based on which candidate he felt was more qualified. He expressed that he appreciated Obama’s tone versus McCain’s and felt the Republican party had lost touch with the people (which, in his opinion, is why they lost the election). What is fantastic about this is that he has done what everyone should be doing…looking at each candidate and voting on their merits.
If you feel that his vote for Obama is an indictment of your vote for McCain, I would ask this: Did you vote for McCain because you felt he was the best candidate to run the country for the next 4-8 years? If so, then Wayne’s opinion shouldn’t bother you. You voted your conscience, and you have nothing to apologize for. If you voted for McCain because you think a vote for Obama is a vote against the Lord (or just as bad, that a vote for any Democrat is a vote for “baby-killing homosexuals”) then I would humbly submit that you may be a victim of special interest groups who are paid to prey on people’s fears of candidates and the future of our “culture”. These people count on Christians not to think for themselves and to vote for an entire political party all the time based on the false belief that that party unilaterally represents the moral high ground. It is too bad that so many Christians feel this way, because they cannot see to the heart of an individual, only to the bland and restrictive boxes they have placed people in.
I’m coming late to the party, but great post, Wayne. I remember we talked about this a little bit this past Spring when you were at our place in Raleigh. I can tell you’ve wrestled with this & gained personal clarity because you’re point of view changed between then and now! While some call that waffling, I call that growth. My wife and I, too, voted for Obama. I blogged a bit of my navigating these waters here.
I’m coming late to the party, but great post, Wayne. I remember we talked about this a little bit this past Spring when you were at our place in Raleigh. I can tell you’ve wrestled with this & gained personal clarity because you’re point of view changed between then and now! While some call that waffling, I call that growth. My wife and I, too, voted for Obama. I blogged a bit of my navigating these waters here.
I think sometimes we Christians put too much emphasis on who does or doesn’t win elections. Is or hope in Jesus Christ or in Washington, DC? If the body of Christ can survive Nero and Decius, I think by God’s grace it can survive anyone. The Kingdom of the Jesus is unstoppable.
I’ve been reading a biography of William Wilberforce, an evangelical and a British Member of Parliament who brought about the end of the slave trade. He was featured in the recent movie Amazing Grace, which is a must-see in my opinion.
I think this quote from Wilberforce puts it in perspective:
“…my only solid hopes for the well-being of my country depend, not so much on her fleets and armies, not so much on the wisdom of her rulers, or the spirit of her people, as on the persuasion, that she still contains many who love and obey the Gospel of Christ…”
-William Wilberforce, from his book A Practical View.
I think sometimes we Christians put too much emphasis on who does or doesn’t win elections. Is or hope in Jesus Christ or in Washington, DC? If the body of Christ can survive Nero and Decius, I think by God’s grace it can survive anyone. The Kingdom of the Jesus is unstoppable.
I’ve been reading a biography of William Wilberforce, an evangelical and a British Member of Parliament who brought about the end of the slave trade. He was featured in the recent movie Amazing Grace, which is a must-see in my opinion.
I think this quote from Wilberforce puts it in perspective:
“…my only solid hopes for the well-being of my country depend, not so much on her fleets and armies, not so much on the wisdom of her rulers, or the spirit of her people, as on the persuasion, that she still contains many who love and obey the Gospel of Christ…”
-William Wilberforce, from his book A Practical View.
Wow! I was blown away by reading your response to the election. I was so encouraged by your book, “So You Don’t Want to Go to Church Anymore”. I have bought multiple copies and given them away. It confirmed many of my and my husbands own thoughts. I was hesitant to write for many reasons. Mainly, I don’t want to debate anything. I just wanted to let you know how it effected me.
I can’t follow your logic….nor the “love” that by your books it seemed you had such a deep revelation on. Taking a stand for the lives of those that can’t defend themselves is about the most loving thing we can do. Also, you mentioned you were disappointed in McCain’s choice of VP due to “lack of experience”. That one really blew me away. We own a recruiting firm and work with resumes and make our living matching and qualifying people based on their resumes and experience. When you look at things “objectively”, Sarah Palin technically has more experience and is more qualified than Obama…So, that one was a stumper for me.
I feel there is a real “disconnect” here. I don’t believe in the “doom and gloom” and the “hopeless” message that many in the “church” have been speaking. But, neither do I agree with what seems to be a true “blind spot” in your reasoning, not to mention a few major contradictions. Just an honest heart, that felt an unexpected disappointment and a huge question mark….
May God’s grace continue to be where we turn to for all our needs and may we truly by that grace be taught by him.
Blessings,
Rebecca
Wow! I was blown away by reading your response to the election. I was so encouraged by your book, “So You Don’t Want to Go to Church Anymore”. I have bought multiple copies and given them away. It confirmed many of my and my husbands own thoughts. I was hesitant to write for many reasons. Mainly, I don’t want to debate anything. I just wanted to let you know how it effected me.
I can’t follow your logic….nor the “love” that by your books it seemed you had such a deep revelation on. Taking a stand for the lives of those that can’t defend themselves is about the most loving thing we can do. Also, you mentioned you were disappointed in McCain’s choice of VP due to “lack of experience”. That one really blew me away. We own a recruiting firm and work with resumes and make our living matching and qualifying people based on their resumes and experience. When you look at things “objectively”, Sarah Palin technically has more experience and is more qualified than Obama…So, that one was a stumper for me.
I feel there is a real “disconnect” here. I don’t believe in the “doom and gloom” and the “hopeless” message that many in the “church” have been speaking. But, neither do I agree with what seems to be a true “blind spot” in your reasoning, not to mention a few major contradictions. Just an honest heart, that felt an unexpected disappointment and a huge question mark….
May God’s grace continue to be where we turn to for all our needs and may we truly by that grace be taught by him.
Blessings,
Rebecca
Wayne,
Upon hearing about this blog from my wife I was disappointed. I have spent quite a bit of time reading and posting over at Daily Kos (trying to understand what makes Obama supporters tick) and to be quite honest this looks like a blog entry I would expect to find over there. What I read here seems to be a lot of human reasoning that disagrees with my human reasoning and that troubles me. When I heard that you had voted for Obama I had initially assumed that it was God had told you to do so and that the reason that you had blogged about it was out of obedience to Him (thus confronting the fear and hatred that many of us on the political right might be experiencing).
After actually reading this though it seems that you are still placing some hope in the hopelessly broken political system in this country. I have been struggling with fear since Obama has been elected, as I struggled with it before he was. Ultimately, I know that the Lord’s will is going to be done and that the kingdoms of this world are going to give way to the kingdoms of our God. I don’t see how that means that I should vote for a man who openly declares his support for abortion and embryonic stem cell research. If the Anti-Christ also incarnates and comes with lying signs and wonders and the promise of world peace will you vote for him, given the chance, as well? Your logic baffles me and the fact that you put it forward here troubles me.
Wayne, does the Holy Spirit affirm this decision to you or is this an operation of your intellect and flesh? I know that you are not answerable to me but I ask you was this obedience or presumption on your part?
Wayne,
Upon hearing about this blog from my wife I was disappointed. I have spent quite a bit of time reading and posting over at Daily Kos (trying to understand what makes Obama supporters tick) and to be quite honest this looks like a blog entry I would expect to find over there. What I read here seems to be a lot of human reasoning that disagrees with my human reasoning and that troubles me. When I heard that you had voted for Obama I had initially assumed that it was God had told you to do so and that the reason that you had blogged about it was out of obedience to Him (thus confronting the fear and hatred that many of us on the political right might be experiencing).
After actually reading this though it seems that you are still placing some hope in the hopelessly broken political system in this country. I have been struggling with fear since Obama has been elected, as I struggled with it before he was. Ultimately, I know that the Lord’s will is going to be done and that the kingdoms of this world are going to give way to the kingdoms of our God. I don’t see how that means that I should vote for a man who openly declares his support for abortion and embryonic stem cell research. If the Anti-Christ also incarnates and comes with lying signs and wonders and the promise of world peace will you vote for him, given the chance, as well? Your logic baffles me and the fact that you put it forward here troubles me.
Wayne, does the Holy Spirit affirm this decision to you or is this an operation of your intellect and flesh? I know that you are not answerable to me but I ask you was this obedience or presumption on your part?
Wayne,
I voted for McCain mostly because I saw him more as an Independent than a Republican. Obama is a good man and appears to be a good family man! I just don’t agree with his policies and principles. He will fail because his concept for success is flawed. And yes it can and will get a lot worse than the last eight years. In fact, what I see coming will make the last great depression look like a Sunday school picnic. It’s almost indescribable how bad our economy will be for a whole host of reasons that I can’t go into here. Nevertheless, God sets up rulers and put down rulers for His own purpose. And his purpose is to bring his children through hard places to draw them closer to Himself. We are not to despise the chastening of the Lord Heb 12: 4-11 Afterward the correction yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness. It’s great to be on the mountain top where the nation has been for awhile… but, the valley develops in us character. The trials we will be facing will give us ample opportunity to bring many people to Father. The stress will be freaking out a lot of people and they will latch onto us that have the peace that comes from the Prince of Peace. We have absolutely nothing to fear no matter who is in office. The boat can be rocking and about to sink… no fear. Take a nap if you have the time… that’s what Jesus did. Matt. 8:24. Jesus will meet you where you are, every day, one day at a time. Trust Him in that or perish. Ps. 91.. I read the whole thing every week for awhile. That Word says it all!
Steve
Wayne,
I voted for McCain mostly because I saw him more as an Independent than a Republican. Obama is a good man and appears to be a good family man! I just don’t agree with his policies and principles. He will fail because his concept for success is flawed. And yes it can and will get a lot worse than the last eight years. In fact, what I see coming will make the last great depression look like a Sunday school picnic. It’s almost indescribable how bad our economy will be for a whole host of reasons that I can’t go into here. Nevertheless, God sets up rulers and put down rulers for His own purpose. And his purpose is to bring his children through hard places to draw them closer to Himself. We are not to despise the chastening of the Lord Heb 12: 4-11 Afterward the correction yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness. It’s great to be on the mountain top where the nation has been for awhile… but, the valley develops in us character. The trials we will be facing will give us ample opportunity to bring many people to Father. The stress will be freaking out a lot of people and they will latch onto us that have the peace that comes from the Prince of Peace. We have absolutely nothing to fear no matter who is in office. The boat can be rocking and about to sink… no fear. Take a nap if you have the time… that’s what Jesus did. Matt. 8:24. Jesus will meet you where you are, every day, one day at a time. Trust Him in that or perish. Ps. 91.. I read the whole thing every week for awhile. That Word says it all!
Steve
Oh My! I just now read this and read all the posts. I hope you answered Tina, Wayne. I believe she spoke with clarity. Glen and I had a black man on our will to take care of our children if something happened to us. Our kids thankfully have friends of many nationalities and I do believe they do not judge people by their race or color. Once my daughter was the only blonde girl in an all African American sleepover. All four of us voted for McCain. We all attended an Obama rally and also a rally Palin and McCain were at. The differences in the people at them were marked to us. The McCain people were polite and respectful in spite of close quarters and standing for hours. We saw several rude instances at the Obama rally. Twice we were yelled at and no, they did not know we were Republicans. When I saw all the blacks with tears after the election I fet nauseous. That anyone would be happy for a win because of someone’s color is discrimination. To think any less or more of someone because of their color is discrimination.
I too believe America asked for a king and God delivered. Barack Hussein Obama has our prayers.
Oh My! I just now read this and read all the posts. I hope you answered Tina, Wayne. I believe she spoke with clarity. Glen and I had a black man on our will to take care of our children if something happened to us. Our kids thankfully have friends of many nationalities and I do believe they do not judge people by their race or color. Once my daughter was the only blonde girl in an all African American sleepover. All four of us voted for McCain. We all attended an Obama rally and also a rally Palin and McCain were at. The differences in the people at them were marked to us. The McCain people were polite and respectful in spite of close quarters and standing for hours. We saw several rude instances at the Obama rally. Twice we were yelled at and no, they did not know we were Republicans. When I saw all the blacks with tears after the election I fet nauseous. That anyone would be happy for a win because of someone’s color is discrimination. To think any less or more of someone because of their color is discrimination.
I too believe America asked for a king and God delivered. Barack Hussein Obama has our prayers.
**So, Wayne…how do you feel no, two and a half months in to the Obama presidency?
**On the day after the election, you said these things:
The stakes are high. The opportunity is great. I do pray that Obama will be blessed with wisdom and insight and that he will live up to his promise to not represent the narrow interest of party, but do work for a common good that offers equal justice for all.
Some day I’ll be able to tell my grandchildren that I voted for the first African-American president of these United States, not because he was black but because he held the best promise to reverse the course of our failed politics and open a new chapter on American public life.
I pray he lives up to that promise. If he doesn’t, it really can’t be any worse than the last eight years.
**Has he been wise? Has he gone beyond party politics and governed equally? And about looking at your grandchildren’s faces–instead of beaming with pride that you were a part of an historic election and voted for someone apparently at least partially because of his skin color, now you can look at those angelic faces and say “Back when American was free, Grandpa voted for the guy who caused you to pay $89,000 more in taxes and took away your liberty.”
**Worse than the past eight years? New chapter in American public life? Yeah, right. This man is dismantling everything this country was founded on.
You drank the Kool-Aid, Wayne.
**So, Wayne…how do you feel no, two and a half months in to the Obama presidency?
**On the day after the election, you said these things:
The stakes are high. The opportunity is great. I do pray that Obama will be blessed with wisdom and insight and that he will live up to his promise to not represent the narrow interest of party, but do work for a common good that offers equal justice for all.
Some day I’ll be able to tell my grandchildren that I voted for the first African-American president of these United States, not because he was black but because he held the best promise to reverse the course of our failed politics and open a new chapter on American public life.
I pray he lives up to that promise. If he doesn’t, it really can’t be any worse than the last eight years.
**Has he been wise? Has he gone beyond party politics and governed equally? And about looking at your grandchildren’s faces–instead of beaming with pride that you were a part of an historic election and voted for someone apparently at least partially because of his skin color, now you can look at those angelic faces and say “Back when American was free, Grandpa voted for the guy who caused you to pay $89,000 more in taxes and took away your liberty.”
**Worse than the past eight years? New chapter in American public life? Yeah, right. This man is dismantling everything this country was founded on.
You drank the Kool-Aid, Wayne.
Phyllis,
Nope, drank no Kool-Aid here.
If you read the article carefully, there were lots of reasons I voted for Obama over McCain in this election. Does that mean I’m thrilled with everything President Obama is doing? Absolutely not. In the bi-partisanship promise, he seems to have done exactly what Bush did. He promised to to work across the aisle, but then governs with hostility toward those who think differently than he does. Am I disappointed? Yes. Surprised? Not really. This is the way Washington works, unfortunately. If anyone had the opportunity to do it differently it was Obama. And, yes, he has squandered that opportunity. But do I think we would have been any better off under McCain/Palin? No, I don’t. Not even close. The current state of our democratic republic is such that we don’t really have a choice anymore for anyone that will put country over party, mutual respect over partisan bickering. Sad, but true!
Phyllis,
Nope, drank no Kool-Aid here.
If you read the article carefully, there were lots of reasons I voted for Obama over McCain in this election. Does that mean I’m thrilled with everything President Obama is doing? Absolutely not. In the bi-partisanship promise, he seems to have done exactly what Bush did. He promised to to work across the aisle, but then governs with hostility toward those who think differently than he does. Am I disappointed? Yes. Surprised? Not really. This is the way Washington works, unfortunately. If anyone had the opportunity to do it differently it was Obama. And, yes, he has squandered that opportunity. But do I think we would have been any better off under McCain/Palin? No, I don’t. Not even close. The current state of our democratic republic is such that we don’t really have a choice anymore for anyone that will put country over party, mutual respect over partisan bickering. Sad, but true!
Just curious as to how you feel about things now?
Hi Becca. Glad you asked. I’ll still stand by my last statement in that posting. Has he fulfilled his promise? No, he has not. He has failed miserably to bring a new spirit of bipartisanship to Washington and saddled up alongside some of the worst elements on our political stage. While I appreciate some of what he’s done on the foreign policy stage and dealing with terrorists, he is way out of his depth in dealing with the economic realities confronting our nation. But would any of this have been any better with McCain/Palin in the White House? I don’t think so. What the last two administrations have proven is that all politicians at the national level are owned by the Wall Street tycoons and the military/industrial complex and continue to drive this nation into greater debt, while they line their own pockets with ever-increasing wealth. I am ashamed of the politicians that gather in Washington, and that includes BOTH parties. I hold them accountable for destroying what is best of America. They have pitted the public against each other while they use the conflict to bolster their own power, and the power of government. They vote themselves special perks that the rest of America can’t participate in, but must pay for. They pander to the worst elements in both parties and refuse to defend or work for a common good for our country or for the world. They are frauds and fakes, the whole lot of them and I hope and pray for an anti-incumbency vote in 2012 that brings some genuine statesmen and stateswomen to the forefront. The only problem is are any of them running at the moment?
Just curious as to how you feel about things now?
Hi Becca. Glad you asked. I’ll still stand by my last statement in that posting. Has he fulfilled his promise? No, he has not. He has failed miserably to bring a new spirit of bipartisanship to Washington and saddled up alongside some of the worst elements on our political stage. While I appreciate some of what he’s done on the foreign policy stage and dealing with terrorists, he is way out of his depth in dealing with the economic realities confronting our nation. But would any of this have been any better with McCain/Palin in the White House? I don’t think so. What the last two administrations have proven is that all politicians at the national level are owned by the Wall Street tycoons and the military/industrial complex and continue to drive this nation into greater debt, while they line their own pockets with ever-increasing wealth. I am ashamed of the politicians that gather in Washington, and that includes BOTH parties. I hold them accountable for destroying what is best of America. They have pitted the public against each other while they use the conflict to bolster their own power, and the power of government. They vote themselves special perks that the rest of America can’t participate in, but must pay for. They pander to the worst elements in both parties and refuse to defend or work for a common good for our country or for the world. They are frauds and fakes, the whole lot of them and I hope and pray for an anti-incumbency vote in 2012 that brings some genuine statesmen and stateswomen to the forefront. The only problem is are any of them running at the moment?