It is clear that our nation is experiencing a sea-change of political direction, and yet at the same time is split in half at the close of a contentious presidential campaign marked by divisive and hateful rhetoric.
There is tumult and uncertainty all around us, but the church may yet reassert itself as the body of Christ in which all members have a part, no one member is greater or more important than another, and no one can say to another that he or she is not needed in the body (1 Corinthians 12).
Times of great change and uncertainty are times of opportunity for disciples of Christ. This is a time for the church to speak about the Good News of the Gospel with renewed energy and enthusiasm.
The calling of the church of Jesus Christ is clear, in this circumstance–and indeed in all circumstances: “To bring good news to the poor…. to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor” (Luke 4:18b-19 NRSV).
Words from the prophet Micah offer us similar wisdom for this time in the life of our nation, from the Old Testament scriptures:
“He has told you, O mortal, what is good;
and what does the Lord require of you
but to do justice, and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8 NRSV)
Let us continue as the church, living out of faith and hope, and the greatest of these: love (1 Corinthians 13:13).
Cheryl Brumbaugh-Cayford is director of News Services for the Church of the Brethren, and associate editor for Messenger. She also is an ordained minister and a graduate of Bethany Seminary and the University of La Verne, Calif.