Eternal perspective

In both my Tuesday morning and Sunday morning bible studies, we have been looking at life and history, attempting to gain a more eternal perspective.

From the creation of Israel, through their growth into a nation while in Egypt, to their conquest of geographic Israel: through Judges, Kings, and captivity; God's sovereign hand was in control. Yet HE often gave them exactly what they wanted, and let them partake of the fruit of their labor. We ought watch what we pray for.

Now bear in mind that most of my friends are pretty conservative, and that most have Dubya stickers on their car windows. But there are several liberals that carried water for Kerry and for Gore before him. Of those in both groups who profess Christ; the vast majority prayed for victory for one or the other. (go figure) No problem. I was however, amazed at the (very) few Christians who thought that if their candidate didn't win that "It was over." Then I saw the newspaper where a Southern Baptist Convention speaker proclaimed victory for keeping W in office. Don't get me wrong. I like Dubya. I think he's probably the nicest nationally viable presidential candidates that has been near the office since Reagan. But as president? Well, let's just say he was a far better candidate.

I am reminded of my menonite friends who ignore most politics, but pray for those in authority, and the nation in which they reside. Like them, I stoped placing my faith in any politician. There is not a politician who can save this country. This country is so far from recovery that there is no logical reason for hope. In fact: it would take a miracle for this nation to recover it's historical direction, legacy, and faith.

So I pray for miracles. For my God is in the miracle business.

But I am under no delusions. My perspective is horribly near sighted. If I must endure pain and suffering in this lift to enjoy greater joy in the next; so be it. (just for the record: I'd rather have peace, freedom and joy in this life AND the next) God's perspective is eternal.

The entirety of human history has been a demonstration of the futility of man attempting to create a society and find meaning apart from God. It is high irony how so many in the "church" forget that, and work so hard to find a man-centered solution to this spiritual problem. Obviously I love politics and governmental theory, so my point isn't to ignore them altogether. But to hold politics with as much of an eternal perspective as we can. To not confuse this kingdom with the next, and to place our trust more in the God who created everything, than the man who holds any particular office.