Beyond the Ballot: Finding Grace After an Election

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This morning, in my prayers, the Magnificat rang differently.

As I recited the line about casting the mighty down from their thrones and lifting up the lowly, I was quickly reminded of our election results. But I suppose that is the rub, right? Our desire to see our hopes fulfilled in the most recent candidate or elected official is often just another way to clamor for earthly power.

That kind of exchange, however, is not what Mary’s song embodies. God’s promise of mercy to the Nth generation isn't about our political triumph, it is about God’s call for us to love mercy, do justice, and walk humbly with our God. It is about actively loving our neighbors, including (and perhaps especially) those who voted differently than we did.

After all, across the vast swath of the biblical text, it is exceedingly rare for a political leader or king to be cast as the hero. Even David, often regarded as the exemplar king, is rarely presented without his flaws on full display. Scripture consistently redirects our hope away from earthly thrones and back toward the heart of God.

This morning, some people in our communities feel validated and heard, while others feel marginalized and silenced. Living faithfully means stepping into that gap so no one feels alone. At the end of the day, most of us want the same things: to feel safe, to know our children will have opportunities we didn't, and to be assured our voices matter.