Who would Jesus elect?

As a pastor for 48 years, I am fascinated how people of faith cast ballots for leaders. Having personally encountered six U.S. presidents of both parties, I am grateful for their genuine faith and servant leadership.

In 2016 the evangelical electorate went largely with untested Donald Trump. After four years it is clear he has not chinned the pole. He is insecure, immature, and full of fear. His administration has attracted grifters galore. The thrice-married, nominal Presbyterian and former gameshow host wrote “The Art of the Deal.”

His opponent wrote “Promise Me, Dad,” to his Iraq war veteran son dying of cancer. Empathetic Vice President Joe Biden lost his first wife and daughter in a car crash in 1972. Trump lost two wives and millions of dollars in failed marriages. Joe rode the train daily for 36 years while serving in the U.S. Senate. He presided over the Senate for eight years as Vice President.

In a season of pandemic, institutional racism, police brutality, and climate change, who will soon receive your vote? The Judeo-Christian scriptures give timely and timeless guidance to evangelicals and all other citizens. The First Testament‘s prophetic core command is “Do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God.” The New Testament is centered in Jesus’s dual command, “Love God and love neighbor.”

Soon you will cast a vote for president. Will it be for justice, kindness, humility, and love for God and neighbor? Who would Jesus elect?

Dr. Michael Dent

Tyler