Nov. 12, 2016
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:
Greetings in the precious name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Just last Monday, I wrote you a letter in which I quoted John Wesley’s words from Oct. 6, 1774:
“I met those of our society who had votes in the ensuing election, and advised them, 1) To vote, without fee or reward, for the person they judged most worthy; 2) to speak no evil of the person they voted against; and, 3) to take care their spirits were not sharpened against those that voted on the other side.”
Wesley’s words are no less pertinent after the voting is done. The results of this election have brought a wide range of responses and emotions. We, United Methodists, were divided before the election, and we continue to be divided now. I have heard from many people this week expressing fear, distrust, disappointment, and anger as well as joy and hope. I have been in prayer for all of us during this emotional week.
In the midst of our differences and feelings, let us remember the words of Paul who said, “Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” (Romans 12:12)
May we hold our elected officials and leaders across the nation and each other in prayer as we strive to uphold the principles Jesus shared with us. As builders of community, peace makers and seekers of justice for all, let us continue our work and be beacons of light across New England and beyond.
Tomorrow as we gather together for worship, may we reflect on the Prayer of St. Francis:
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy.
O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
to be consoled as to console,
to be understood as to understand,
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
Amen.
In Christ’s love,
Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar
