The morning after—we’ve all been there at one point or another. We second-guess whether we made good choices the night before and whether the memories are memorable. This is where we find ourselves this morning, post-presidential election. And just like those mornings, today is no different. Good or bad, we must live with the results of our actions from the day before.
It is a moment of reflection to recognize where we could have done better and not what he or she did; instead, what can we now do to ensure things don’t get worse? Hence, we wipe ourselves down, take a deep breath, and make the best of what will come. We can either reflect on the joy or sorrow or simply learn from it and move forward.
The results of last night’s elections may differ from what you envision for the country. But hey, you did your part by voting for what you felt was the best choice for your livelihood and our nation. At the same time, the results may be what you hoped for and envision. Either way, it is still within your power to hold the next administration accountable as you would the current one.
As we navigate the complexities of our political landscape, let us remember that we are all part of a larger community. May we approach one another with empathy and understanding, seeking common ground and fostering unity.
The government is to work for the citizens of the nation. Our elected officials are to work for the interest of the whole and not the few. As you enter a period of celebration or mourning, depending on how you voted, I encourage you to pray. Pray that our nation, after its celebratory and grieving period, may unite to better what we leave for the next generations.
In the days and weeks to come, let us actively engage in civic discourse, advocating for policies that promote justice, equity, and the well-being of all.
Jesus calls us to love one another as he loves us. As Christians in a nation that is a melting pot for religious beliefs, race, ethnicity, gender, and citizen status, along with the many other differences we each embody, we must acknowledge the differences to see each other fully. We are to use the gifts we personify to make this a flourishing space for all to dwell.
For those who may feel disappointed or disheartened, let us find solace in knowing that our faith journey continues. Let us turn to God for strength and guidance, trusting in God’s ultimate hopes for us.
May The Divine Spirit guide us as a nation in the following steps that are to come. Let us ask that The Great Counselor provide their presence in a journey representing joy for some and turmoil for others. May we feel the warm embrace from God as we would that of a loving, compassionate parent. Let us pray to our Eternal Parent to provide the tools for the children of this nation, whether domestic or foreign-born, to come together as a loving family despite differences to make the household work best for the whole. Let us ask that hope retains a glimmer of light in our path in the morning after. We pray in the name of the one sent to model and teach us what it is to love one another, Jesus Christ and Saviour. Amen.
-Rev. Jon Gilbert Martinez, Pastor
