As I began to write this, it has already snowed six inches and there are more inches of snow expected.
The result?
We are being told to stay home. Stay off the roads. Hunker down. Don’t go out because it is not safe. In so many words – insulate and isolate.
When I began this adventure with Leaders of Faith, I had not interacted with many elected officials. In my exploration of this possibility, I interviewed several representatives and senators.
The research found . . .
Our elected officials often must insulate and isolate. One stopped going to church because people were pushing their agenda and not Jesus. Another shared how difficult it is to go to the grocery store because people want to lobby with them.
How alone and isolated they feel.
The Lord showed me the need and the opportunity to invest in the spiritual, relational, and emotional needs of our elected officials. We are living in times of great division. If a person isn’t in 100% agreement with every issue, then they are often seen as the enemy. Jesus was saying to me, “These are one of the most unreached people groups. As I walked into the Samaritan woman’s life at the well, seek out the elected government officials. Love them where they are out. Seek their best. Share with them the love and relationship that I want them to have with me.”
Another thing became important to me. What does God say, in the Bible, about government officials. My research dug up fifteen passages – five Old Testament and ten New Testament. (If you have some that you would like to share with me, please send them.) Here are two that have helped guide my perspective, my prayer, and my attitude.
“Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.” Hebrews 13:17
“Give me wisdom and knowledge, that I may lead this people, for who is able to govern this great people of yours?” 2 Chronicles 1:10
When asked, “How can we pray for you?” one official responded to have the “shrewdness of Jesus.” This seemed a bit odd, and it has caused me to ponder the request. In reflecting on Jesus’ style, he asked a lot of questions. He often would respond to a question by asking another question. Jesus used parables in his speaking. Jesus spoke shrewdly. May God give this official the shrewdness of Jesus.
Please join Leaders of Faith in praying . . .
- We would be safe, God-honoring places for the representatives.
- We would have dynamic relationships where officials can be encouraged and grow in their intimacy with Christ.
- God open doors and hearts to start and maintain relationships.
- That those elected officials who know Jesus would have the shrewdness of Jesus in their interactions.