I live in Minnesota, and I hate the chaos and tension happening in my state. I’m uncomfortable with armed federal agents moving through our cities. It saddens me that people of different nationalities and immigration statuses are afraid to leave their homes. It angers me that antagonistic agitators infiltrate peaceful protests, leading to dangerous situations for everyone. It’s ridiculous that government leaders on both sides stoke the flames with inflammatory rhetoric rather than trying to find a way to work together to address immigration concerns. It feels like a third-world country in the heartland of the greatest nation on earth.
So, what’s our response?
God appointed the civil government to enforce the law, and the unfortunate result of past lackadaisical enforcement is an over-correction that feels like a police state. As Christ-followers, we must pray for our leaders! And in a nation where we have the right to vote, we must vote for candidates who will enact godly policies and enforce them in a way that ensures the welfare of the people they represent. When they succeed, we prosper. When they fail, we vote them out.
“If you put your hope in elected, enthroned, or installed world leaders, you will always be disappointed. Only the King of Glory will keep every promise He makes and accomplish all His purposes.” – When You Speak the Names of God
Ultimately, the Church was not commanded by God to enforce the law, but we are commanded to obey it. We are commanded to pray for our leaders and to seek the welfare of the city we live in. We are commanded to love all people, including the immigrant, regardless of legal status. To feed them, clothe them, and share the gospel with them. This kind of love walks alongside them, helping them navigate the immigration process so they can live in peace in our nation. And it encourages them to obey the law of the land, because to disobey it is to disobey God.
Where do we go from here?
America is one nation of many, and nations throughout history have faced turbulent turning points that threatened their existence. Regardless of which direction America goes from here, as Christ-followers, we are citizens of an eternal kingdom with a holy and just King. Today, He rules from a heavenly throne, but one day He will return to rule on earth, and the lawlessness and disorder will be gone forever.
King of Glory, we rejoice because You are in control. The current circumstances of our country are confusing and chaotic, causing anger and fear. Our elected officials do not elicit calm and confidence. When evil goes unchecked, as citizens of this nation, we can feel helpless. But as citizens of heaven, we are not helpless! We appeal to the King who rules the universe. You have not left Your throne, nor have You set aside Your purposes. We ask for Your mighty intervention. Be with our leaders. Compel them to seek justice with grace. Protect us, guide us, and give us Your peace. In Jesus’ name, amen.
