President-Elect Obama

The United States will have a new president in January (if you haven't heard already...). One of the things that makes our nation great is that we have peaceful elections in which American citizens choose their own leader, and President-elect Obama has emerged as the choice of the American people. Another thing that makes our nation great is the peaceful change of governments. President Bush and his staff will depart quietly, and graciously hand the reins to the people's new choice.

You might not have supported Obama in the Presidential election. Almost half of the voters voted for McCain, including me. But, now that the decision has been made, all Americans should rally behind Obama and give him our full support. He will be our President, the President of the U. S. A., and no longer simply a leader of the Democratic party. He's intelligent and full of energy, and from all reports, a moral, Christian family man. I think he has some special skills to bring to the nation's current needs:

1. It's becoming increasingly clear that there is a great disparity between the rich and poor in the U. S., and also becoming clear that some of the richest have taken unreasonable advantage of their good fortune. CEO's continue to draw exorbitant salaries, even when their companies are doing poorly and laying off their long-time employees. Sports figures and entertainers draw huge salaries disproportionate to their contribution to society. Elderly people are having to do without medications to make ends meet. I think Obama realizes these things and will address these problems.

2. As the rest of the world continues to catch up with the United States in economic power, we will find that we will no longer be able to use our might to force other countries to do the right thing. An alternate approach is needed, and I think Obama might be able to find it.

3. Despite huge strides toward racial equality in this nation, there is still a great deal of racial resentment. I think Obama will help heal that. Hopefully, as a result, crime rates will go down.

The Bible makes it clear that God wants us to submit to our government leaders:

"Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you." -Hebrews 13:17

"Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men." -Titus 3:1-2

"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God." -Romans 13:1

Pray for President-elect Obama. He has a tough job in front of him, probably the most stressful job in the world. If he is successful, all of the U. S. will reap the benefits.