Election-day communion and the sacrament of voting

This election cycle has included enough religion-related bickering for a lifetime of elections — there was “Pulpit Freedom Sunday,” Mormon bashing, continued ignorance of President Obama’s Christian faith, and Billy Graham’s surprising endorsement of Mitt Romney (orchestrated by son Franklin?). Even though much election rancor softens after election day, our deep divisions do not simply disappear on November 7. We may take down our yard signs, but we will still be divided.

With this in mind, after I cast my vote, I plan to meet at the Lord’s Table to be reminded of greater priorities, repent of my sin, and be sent to embrace my faith’s higher calling. I look forward to participating in our local Election Day Communion.

This is not to say voting is unimportant or unrelated to my Christian faith. Indeed, I see participation in public life for the public good as fundamental to Christian discipleship. A well-run government supports me in my call to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. Because of my Christian faith, I vote.