The religious leaders were trying to trap Jesus on the issue of paying taxes, but Jesus turned the table on them (Matthew 22:15-20).  He asked them for a coin, and then asked whose portrait and inscription was stamped on it.  They replied, “Caesar’s.”  Jesus responded: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’.” (verse 21).  Jesus’ point:  Citizens are obligated to support their government.

Unlike ancient Rome, Americans are blessed to have a government, as President Lincoln put it, “of the people, by the people, and for the people.”  Our form of government requires our participation.  Christian citizens are to pray for our government leaders, pay our taxes, engage in government policy, speak out on moral and social issues, hold public office and vote. 

Voting is a simple act with a significant impact.  When we vote, we help determine who will lead our nation, make our laws, and protect our freedoms.  Voting is a right, a privilege, and a freedom that millions in other parts of the world can only dream about. 

Yet, many Americans choose not to vote.  Nearly 30% of the voting age population is not registered to vote (U. S. Census Bureau).  That’s 55 million Americans!  What’s worse – less than half of those registered actually vote in any given election!

Many who profess to be Christians fail to consider their biblical values when voting, often choosing candidates whose positions are at odds with their own convictions, beliefs, and values.  A study by the Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life shows that nearly two-thirds of Americans say that their faith has little to do with their voting decisions.  However, as “salt” and “light,” Jesus expects us to influence every part of our culture – including our government and the democratic process.  (Matthew 5:13-16). 

Here are four practical action steps to take:

§         Pray

§         Register to Vote – PA Deadline to Register is October 6, 2008.

§         Register Friends and Neighbors to Vote (Registration Forms are available at the Information Table)

§         Vote Your Values

More information on voting your values will be provided on an occasional basis as we move through the conventions, the debates and the election process.  An online resource you may wish to refer to is http://ivotevalues.org/.  The information on the site is provided by Focus on the Family and the Family Research Council.

Some Information Provided by             Used with Permission.