Across the Pastor’s Desk by Kenneth Jensen

Our son called after the first presidential debate.  He asked  what my impressions were.

I replied, “The one makes me apprehensive. The other makes me nervous.” 

Most would agree that the recent political campaign was fought in the gutter. 

The animosity between those supporting either candidate has been heightened by the results. For the second time in the past five elections, the candidate who won the popular vote in the election will lose when the Electoral College casts its ballot on Dec. 7.

A house divided against itself cannot stand (Matthew 12:25). For this reason we need to come together as a people, whether or not our candidate won or lost. It is our responsibility as Christians, regardless of our world view.

Both political parties have similar goals — just different ways of achieving them. My observation is that conservatives more highly value individual responsibility, whereas liberals emphasize being our brothers’ and sisters’ keeper.

In reality, both get it right. Both principles are embedded within the Christian ethic as law and gospel. Either view can be pushed to the point where it becomes divisive. Overemphasis on law and order can lead to oppression. Overemphasis on gospel can result in anything goes. It’s all about balance.

In this era of partisan politics, it behooves us to respect one another and heal our differences.

As the Apostle Paul admonishes us, “Let every person be subject to the governing authorities; for there is no authority except from God, and those authorities that exist have been instated by God” (Romans 13:1).

Kenneth Jensen is a retired Evangelical Lutheran Church Association pastor living in Albert Lea.