Malachi 4:1-2a (NRSV)
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Chapter 4See, the day is coming, burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evildoers will be stubble; the day that comes shall burn them up, says the Lord of hosts, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch. Verse 2But for you who revere my name the sun of righteousness shall rise, with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall.
Devotion
Tomorrow is Election Day in the U.S., the culmination of many months of vigorous campaigning. We expect seemingly very self-assured candidates will declare why they can lead best and, often, why their opponent is unqualified. After we tally the votes, some of us will feel satisfied and some of us will feel disgruntled. It will be a critical time for healing and coming together.
We must strive to end divisiveness knowing we are all simultaneously saints and sinners. Therefore, it is essential for us humbly to share the message of God's gracious love for everyone without exception. Unfair divisions profoundly influence lives. Whole communities are suffering. Therefore, whatever our individual circumstances, we must work together for our common good. As this week's scriptures remind us, now cannot be a time of idleness. The day has come for us to rise as serving hands and loving hearts of God's righteous healing!
Prayer
God of righteousness, we praise and thank you for your healing now and in the times to come. Forgive our divisiveness. Help us reconcile with all of our neighbors. Please guide the important decisions we make in electing leaders and the vital actions we take in striving for the common good. Amen.