For those of you in the United States (and, yes, perhaps also those in Canada who watch U.S. television), the very long presidential campaign is almost over. For those of us who live in the so-called “swing states” (states that could vote in favor of either of the two major presidential candidates), we are especially relieved that this seemingly unending process is coming to an end on November 4.

It is the current policy of Shadows and Symbols not to endorse political candidates. For one, this blog is friends with supporters of both Senators Obama and McCain, as well as those who support third party candidates or no candidate at all. It is the intention of this blog to be as non-political as possible and thus welcoming to everyone regardless of political opinions. Two, as much as is possible, I believe that the followers of Christ should not use the political process to further the purposes of the kingdom of God. Jesus said plainly, “My kingdom is not of this world”. While it’s perfectly alright for followers of Christ to have and express political views, it would be foolish and dangerous for the body of Christ as a whole to align itself with one particular candidate or party. I have never seen an election where those elected did exactly what they had promised to do. And even if, when elected, they do what they promised and those policies are “pro-Christian”, then they will also make decisions re: other issues that are against the will of God. (After all, does not the Bible warn: “Do not put your trust in princes”?) And not only that, what does that say to supporters of Party A if the followers of Christ all decide to vote for Party B and say publicly that that is what Jesus would do? How would the love of Christ be demonstrated to them?

Do I know who Jesus would vote for? No, I do not. Do I know what Jesus would say about the 2008 U.S. election? Not exactly, but I can take an educated guess about what he might say …

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A McCain supporter ran up through the crowd and yelled to Jesus, “My brother, an Obama supporter, is trying to steal the election from us. Tell my brother to stop that.” And Jesus said to him in response, “Who made me a judge of this matter between the two of you?” And then Jesus turned to the crowd and told them, “Beware of greed and those who lust after power; for your lives don’t really consist of how much money and power that you have”. Jesus then proceeded to tell them about a rich and powerful man who was very content but then suddenly died.

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Is this what Jesus would say? I don’t know for sure, but it’s something to think about between now and Election Day on November 4, 2008.