Unity in a Divided World
During election years, emotions run high, and opinions feel stronger than ever. As a democratic society, we celebrate the freedom to choose our leaders and voice our beliefs. Yet, with this freedom comes a responsibility to continue loving and respecting one another, even when our views differ. As followers of Christ, we’re called to love our neighbors as ourselves, regardless of political outcomes. This Election Day, let’s reflect on what it means to remain united in compassion and grace.
Today, and in the following weeks, we must remember that the person across from us is more than just a “vote.” They are our neighbor, created in the image of God, deserving of dignity, love, and respect. Loving our neighbors means seeing beyond labels, political affiliations, or opinions and connecting as human beings.
In the Gospels, Jesus consistently reached across social, economic, and political lines that divided people. His interactions with tax collectors, Samaritans, and sinners show us that love doesn’t have borders.
Practicing Grace in Conversations
Election seasons often bring difficult conversations. How can we navigate these with grace? By listening more than we speak, being curious rather than confrontational, and focusing on understanding rather than winning. Practicing empathy and asking open-ended questions can help us connect meaningfully, even when we disagree. As author Brené Brown says in her book Braving the Wilderness: “People are hard to hate close up. Move in.” Getting to know the people behind the opinions helps us find common ground and see each other’s hearts.
Practical Tips
1. Stay Curious – Ask questions with genuine interest, not just to respond. Understanding someone’s “why” can soften disagreements.
2. Listen More, Say Less, Be Kind – As James 1:19 advises, listening allows us to understand before we respond.
3. Focus on Values, Not Just Issues – Look for the shared values that often underlie differing opinions, such as a heart after Jesus, justice, and compassion.
Resources for Peaceful Discourse
Here are some resources that guide us toward understanding and respectful conversations:
1. Braving the Wilderness by Brené Brown – Brown explores the importance of true belonging and the courage to stand alone while still staying connected with others, offering practical insights for bridging divides.
2. “What Does It Really Mean To Love My Neighbor” by Relevant Magazine – This article delves into the challenges and beauty of loving people with different views and offers biblical wisdom for staying kind amid disagreements.
3. A Gentle Answer by Scott Sauls – This book emphasizes responding with grace in contentious times and reminds us that gentleness, not anger, is the most effective way to witness Christ’s love to the world.
Embracing Unity Despite Differences
When the results are in, some of us may feel the excitement of victory, while others experience the sting of disappointment. But in both scenarios, we are called to humility, to celebrate graciously and mourn with dignity. This is not the end but a new opportunity to work together, listen, and care for one another. Real unity isn’t an agreement on everything; it’s an agreement on what matters most. Remember that we are bound by something more significant than a political outcome. We belong to one another because we belong to Christ, who transcends all earthly systems. Our hope and security are in Him, not political figures or policies.
Practical Steps
1. Pray for Your Community and Leaders – Whether your chosen candidate wins or loses, praying for those in authority is a powerful act of unity and faith.
2. Serve Your Community – Focus on loving and serving locally, where you can make a tangible impact. Acts of service—volunteering, lending a hand, or hosting neighborhood events—can foster connections that transcend political boundaries.
3. Stay Informed and Engaged – Even after Election Day, support local organizations that work for the common good. Staying informed and contributing positively can channel energy into community-building.
Conclusion
Christ calls us to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), a calling that challenges us to rise above division and live as examples of God’s love. When we reach out to those we disagree with, we create a powerful witness that the world needs. As our lantern icon reminds us, we’re called to bring the light of God into every space we inhabit… especially when it’s complicated. So, let us shine His light in this season, seeking to foster unity, understanding, and love among all our neighbors. Together, let’s be people who, above all else, live simply, love much, and extend mercy and grace to those around us.