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Struggle In The Voting Booth

As I approach my one year anniversary in December at Northside I hope that it has been abundantly clear that I am not a preacher who gets his sermon topics from the headlines of the daily newspapers and political columns. I do not in any way consider myself to be a political or social issues preacher. The reason for this, which I hope will be abundantly clear in the sermon this morning, is that I believe that our primary need today in every generation is not a new leader, but a new heart – brought on by the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit.

But for the past couple of weeks I feel like I have been avoiding the elephant in the room by not speaking at least somewhat on the upcoming election. To be honest I am torn in many directions and what I really want to know is how does a Christian respond in times such as these?

On one hand I come from a long line of Democrats in my family and I must admit that the charisma and fresh ideas of Barack Obama are appealing to a certain extent. On the other hand I am committed , as strongly as I know how, to the belief that life begins at conception and that abortion is the taking of innocent life. On this single issue I have cast my vote on the Republican ticket for the past decade plus and may be left with this choice again this year. Neither Senator Obama, nor Senator McCain fulfills my expectations of what a President is to be.

My other option is to free my conscience and with a write in vote for a candidate that will most likely not recieve enough votes to recieve a mention on the evening news. Most people will say that this is throwing away my vote and ensuring that Obama will win.

None of these three options is an easy one.

I say all of that to say this; be wise in your decision making this November. Do not be swayed by outward appearances, slogans, or commercials, but be diligent to dig for the facts on the issues that are important to you. Ask God for guidance in the process and trust Him no matter the outcome.

Praying Through These Tough Times With You,
Pastor Mitch

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