Covenant

“Incline your ear, and come to me; listen, so that you may live. I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, sure love for David.” Isaiah 55:3

I filled out my ballot last night, which felt pretty good. Having colored in the ovals, I felt no need to watch the final presidential debate. I understand it was a calmer affair than last time. At any rate, I’ve read about the debate and the positions and promises set forth by the candidates. Candidates make promises; it’s what they do. The question is, will the winner keep those promises?

Now, to be clear, I think there is a clear choice in this election. You probably do, too, even if we don’t agree. But one need not be a cynic to understand that even the most well-intentioned politician cannot and will not keep every promise made on the campaign trail. Sometimes it will be because their opponents block them, or because other items take priority, or because they never really intended to keep the promise in the first place.

(Also, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the other side of this coin, which is when politicians promise to do horrible things and then follow through on those promises.)

Today’s passage from the Daily Texts reminds us that our God is the God of promise. One of my favorite ways of understanding God is that God is the only being in creation with the power to make and keep promises perfectly. We will always falter when it comes to keeping our end of the covenantal bargain, but the covenant does not depend upon us. God has sealed the promise through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

I sure do have a preferred outcome for this election. But whatever happens on November 3 and in the days to follow, remember that Jesus is Lord and that the covenant is unbreakable. Living in that promise: Vote.

Be well, friends. You are loved.

God of promise, thank you for the everlasting covenant made with us through Jesus, the Son of David. Help us to live more closely aligned with your ways, that this world would know your goodness and love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Image: Me, ready to exercise my rights.