Today we celebrate our freedom of choice on Election Day in the United States of America.
Election Day holds powerful memories for me. On Election Day 1968, I started “going steady” with my boyfriend–now, husband, Dan. Yes, that was a long time ago. And no, I didn’t have a clue about the struggles and difficult journey that decision would take me on. But that is my point.
Choices. Even though I couldn’t even vote back then, I did have the freedom to make that personal choice. And I believe my decision that Election Day worked out pretty good. Dan and I celebrated 45 years of marriage this summer.
While some might not have agreed with my choice about a boyfriend “way back when” on Election Day 1968, my kids and grandkids are happy with my decision.
Not all of my choices turn out so well. I’ve also made some “not-so-wise” choices that have impacted many of the people around me. And a few of my family and friends have made some bad decisions through the years, too. But even though their actions may have been harmful, I still choose to love and to forgive them for their choices.
Choosing to love and forgive is essential–in marriage and in all areas of life. And we can always agree on one thing–that we disagree. This choice has helped us manage our differences in over four decades of marriage.
What about you? Still holding grudges rooted “way back when”? Still have a choking sensation in your throat when someone’s name is mentioned? Kind of angry about the opinions and political views of others around you this election year?
How can we get past these debilitating thoughts and emotions? And how can we face the outcome of an election when we don’t like the results, knowing it will affect our family and loved ones?
Remember, we live in the land of the free because of the brave choices of others. And I am thankful for those who have given their lives ensuring our freedoms.
Promise. So, as we celebrate our freedom of choice today, I offer you a promise from God’s Word.
If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers—most of which are never even seen—don’t you think he’ll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? What I’m trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God’s giving. People who don’t know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.
Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes” (Matt. 6:30-34 The Message).
Blessing. May God continue to richly bless America!
The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
(Numb. 6:24-26 NIV)
