2020 Convention Observations

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Democratic and Republican conventions took on a different format this year.  Although the grand celebrations and crowds of delegates were missing, the advanced planning, filming, and attention to detail allowed both parties to still hold their conventions and share their messages.  

         

Observations from conventions:  

* Even when delegates are not present, it takes an abundance of people, many working behind the scenes, for a convention to run smoothly.

* Without the cheering and applause, it was sometimes easier to focus and think through the words and message of the speaker.

* It’s not as insightful to listen, for the purpose of learning and understanding, if an instant rebuttal is being planned.

* Whether a candidate or situation is good or bad is determined by the viewer.

* Sometimes we are too quick to support “our team” and too quick to criticize and find fault with the “other side,” without further investigation of the facts.

* People are passionate about who and what they believe and are willing to share it with others.

* It’s good to take and make time to listen and learn.

* Words and actions make a difference.

* Investment in family is important.

* We are better when we work together.

* Even though our views may differ, we can all pray for and seek peace and the best for our country.

* There is no perfect party or candidate.

* Even with our flaws, I am grateful to be a citizen of and live in the United States of America.

* We ALL need Jesus!

In response, I need to:

* Spend time reading God’s Word

* Pray for those in authority

* Ask God for wisdom

* Weigh and check facts before making a decision

* Make sure my words are true, kind, and necessary before speaking

* Speak in love

* Exercise my right to vote

* Have something to offer in its place before complaining

* Seek peace over division

* Be part of the solution instead of the problem

* Remember that no matter who is elected President of the United States for the next 4 years, Jesus will always be King of Kings and worthy of my worship, praise, adoration, attention, and obedience.  That relationship should make a difference in the kind of citizen I choose to be.

The following scripture was in my Bible reading plan on Friday.

Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.

Titus 3:1-2

 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

1 Timothy 2:1-4

All scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.

1 Peter 2:13-17

If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given you.

James 1:5

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.

James 1:19-20

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

     And what does the LORD require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy

     and to walk humbly with your God.

Micah 6:8

A gentle answer turns away wrath,

     but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 15:1

May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart

     be pleasing in your sight,

          LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.

Psalm 19:14

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.

Colossians 3:12-15