Friends,

I often feel acutely aware that I am probably the least informed person in our Church when it comes to politics, economics and foreign policy, but I try not to be. I strive to be informed about issues as they arise, and I want to understand the history of issues and the rationale behind the policies that have shaped our world. The free trade agreements under the Clinton administration had a profound effect on my life as a child. So much of the work going oversees disrupted or even downright snuffed out the industries in the small towns we lived in. This shift in economics played a big part of our move to the south, which was a defining event in my family. Years ago, I listened to an economist arguing in favor of these trade agreements, and he made quite a compelling case. He claimed, the more the world is intertwined the more stable and prosperous it becomes. These agreements ensured cooperation, trade and mutual dependency that would make conflict less likely. However true this may be, there was still a significant cost to pay.

Those trade agreements may have been worth the cost by forging international relationships, stabilizing regions and creating other jobs. However, I hope those who created and orchestrated these agreements got to know the communities that were adversely affected. Leaders have to make hard decisions, and even the best decisions will likely have known and unknown costs. I suspect that behind every major decision on the national level there should be some bit of mourning, because it will ultimately hurt someone, even if the decision is the right one for the whole.

I may be less informed on political matters than the vast majority of our congregation, but I like to think my expertise lies in a different topic, which is you, and I am not sure if you know this, but all of you experts disagree with each other all of the time. Honestly, it makes me feel a bit better about my own ability, because even though I am less well-read as most of you, I still agree with about half of you.

So, here’s the thing: Donald Trump just won the election, and many things will likely be uprooted and changed. Some of you might be relieved or even rejoicing at this reality, while others are sad and scared. Isolation breads extremism, and as a society we are self-isolating at ever increasing levels, or worse, we are beginning to live exclusively in echo chambers with those whom we agree with. As far as I can tell, St. Luke’s is an exception to this trend. Regardless if it is this change in power, or future shift in regime, if you are part of the group that is making decisions, take a moment to consider the cost. Even if you think it is worth it, know it could be directly touching people in our faith community that worship alongside you.

Emotions are running high, and this would be a good time to be exceptionally charitable and generous with one another. Outdo each other with love, faith and kindness, especially when it is the hard thing to do.

Blessings,

Nick