Thoughts Politic

I often describe myself as being apolitical. I am not apathetic, I'm just a person who puts my energies elsewhere. Politics confound me and, too easily, I begin to believe full-stop that I cannot make a difference. Today is a new day.

On this day in mid-September, 2013, there is much debate over Syria. I hear people from all sides weighing in and I have been, to put it mildly, a bit cynical about it. I know how much I don't know about war and diplomacy, yet from my -- albeit uninformed -- view, it seems our track record of late hasn't been so good. I worry about the consequences, how long our involvement might extend, the cost, and the loss of life, especially more innocent life. I have been feeling pretty hopeless about it; it seems the classic case of "no right answer.

Today, however, I find hope in the scripture. In the readings for today, there is an unmistakable theme of peace; peace, that is, and action, not passivism.

Beloved:

First of all, I ask that supplications, prayers,

petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone,

for kings and for all in authority,

that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life

in all devotion and dignity. 

This is good and pleasing to God our savior,

who wills everyone to be saved

and to come to knowledge of the truth 

(1 Timothy 2:1-4)

There is not only something I can do, but something I (and every Christian) are compelled to do. We are to pray for our leaders, for kings, for all in authority and more . . . to pray for peace, that all "may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity." 

What if we all did that?