The Continuing Challenge: The Golden Rule

Rev. Erik Swanson
November 3, 2024

The weekend before this election brings a sense of anticipation akin to a showdown of titans. Yet it’s essential for us to remember that life will continue beyond Tuesday’s results. While this election may signify a turning point—especially given the potential of electing the first woman and woman of color as president—the fundamental calling of faith remains constant. We must love God fully and love our neighbors as ourselves. This teaching, central to Jesus’ ministry, calls us to embody compassion and unity, even in the face of societal division and the complexities of national politics.

 The Challenges are Evident

As a church and community, our priorities and the Spirit’s call remain unchanged regardless of political outcomes. The challenges of living out the Golden Rule are evident in our nation’s history of violence, white supremacy, and systemic inequality—issues that starkly oppose the core command to love our neighbors. This election season has illuminated these divisions, with rhetoric, rallies, and policies highlighting our struggles with racism, exclusion, and hostility. The closeness of the election reveals how deeply these challenges persist in our national identity.

The real question for us it to discern which leadership choice aligns more closely with the values of love, equity, and neighborly care. Regardless of our personal political preferences, our spiritual mandate is to remain steadfast in love and justice. This calling extends to all neighbors—of every race, nationality, political affiliation, and identity—and challenges us to rise above the polarization to practice empathy and grace in our interactions.

 The Saints Inspire Us

As we celebrate All Saints Day, we are reminded of those who navigated hardship with unwavering faithfulness and love for God and humanity. These saints, often marginalized or unrecognized in their time, inspire us to persevere in our commitment to divine ways amid life’s difficulties. Their lives demonstrate that greatness in faith comes not from worldly success but from steadfast love and dedication to justice.

 The Golden Rule Must Remain Central

This election week offers an opportunity to engage in this sacred work, through both our votes and our reactions to the election’s outcome. It is a chance to nudge our country closer to embodying the ideals of compassion, justice, and unity. The Golden Rule must remain central to our priorities, not just in words but in action, as we strive to create a nation that reflects the love and equity at the heart of Jesus’ teachings.

In the days ahead, let us draw inspiration from the saints and keep our focus on our shared calling. May we approach this election with grace, resolve, and an unyielding commitment to love—embracing the opportunity to play our part in moving our world closer to the sacred vision of justice and peace for all.