Elections – November 2004

by Tom Hemphill

From its inception more than fifty years ago, Religious Research has commented on social problems from a spiritual perspective, but has always refrained from party politics.

In that vein, I urge you to consider the state of America and our role in the world today. Ask yourself if you believe we are living in accordance with the Spiritual purpose for which this great but flawed nation was founded.

Two things control the political life of this nation: money and votes. Politicians cannot survive in our system without adequate supplies of both.

Many of us contribute funds from time to time to a candidate or party or political group that addresses our concerns. Far too few of us Americans vote.

As you know, the last presidential election was virtually a draw. The difference in the total vote count for each candidate was miniscule.

The winner became the President of the United States and the leader of the free world. Yet, 50 percent of Americans did not vote at all. The leader of the free world was elected by only 25 percent of the American people. In truth, 75 percent of us did not vote for him.

Whether or not you approve of the incumbent president is not the point. If three-quarters of us did not vote for him, what is his authority to lead this nation or the world? In the elections this November, if half of us again stay home, what will be the mandate of the declared winner?

Dr. John stressed again and again that the United States had a leadership role to play in helping Planet Earth move forward in greater consonance with God’s will and purpose for humanity. This spiritual view of the future of America and of humanity has little in common with politically-motivated, self-serving, religious and nationalistic beliefs about God.

The real dichotomy of American politics is not between the two parties, nor the two candidates, but between those who seek within their individual capacity to nurture and guide this country in accordance with God’s values and God’s purpose - and those who do nothing at all.

I know that politics is frustrating. I know that both of the serious contenders for the nation’s highest office are flawed human beings. I know there are no easy answers. I sympathize with the pain and frustration of those who feel that one vote is insignificant.

I sympathize, yes, but I do not agree with them. Each vote matters. If for no other reason, each vote matters because it establishes an accountability of our national leaders – the president and the congress.

The votes of ordinary citizens create an accountability that goes beyond the corrupting flood of cash spent on politicians by private industry.

Under the present laws, we cannot prohibit politicians from receiving cash gifts and from being influenced by those gifts. We can ensure, however, that they also must be accountable to those of us who do not give cash but, with our vote, give them the right to represent us and guide us in Washington.

I am truly not a “political type.” I vote regularly, but do not get involved in campaigns and party activities. But I do care deeply about America.

The past four years have sharply changed us. Everything is different from what it was – how our government works, how we citizens are treated by the government, how we are seen in the world, and how we are pursuing our national agenda among the nations of the world. Things are different now.

The path ahead for America is not clear. The decisions made in the next four years will impact this country, our future and our children like no other four-year period in our history.

We will continue and reinforce and institutionalize the path we are on today, or we will stop the current trend, shift in new directions, and create a different kind of future. The choice is ours.

The cruelest thing ever said about a government such as ours is, “In a democracy, people generally get the government they deserve.” What government do we deserve?

I urge you to go to the polls this November. Voting is an act of spiritual force just as much as it is an act of civic responsibility.

If you are pleased with the changes in America in this current administration, then by all means vote to continue this presidency and the party in power. If you are not satisfied with what has happened since 2000 in America, then certainly vote for a change. But vote!

To not vote is not an option. For heaven’s sake, for America’s sake, for the sake of your children, vote! 2004 is not the year to stay home from the polls.

Deny the apathy. Skip the sarcasm. Deal with the frustration. Get up off your duff and prayerfully vote!

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