Mark 10:42-43
Jesus summoned them and said to them, "You know that those who are recognized as rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones make their authority over them felt. But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant"
Presidential elections are always a huge media event in our country, and rightfully so. Picking who will lead the most powerful nation on earth is a big deal. In this election season, it seems like every day there's some new development in the race; a new poll, some scathing new ad, someone 'misspeaks' at a campaign rally, etc. But even though the election seems to gobble up much of our media coverage, you be hard-pressed to find a handful of Americas who would respond positively if asked to share their thoughts on politics in America. It seems like the main reason for this sour attitude is the behavior of politicians themselves. Sure, there are good leaders in our government but media coverage of them just doesn't drive ratings like one of their colleagues being involved in some scandal. Too often, these incidences involve some abuse of power; a politician using his or her position to further themselves rather than to serve the people who elected them. It's this kind of leadership that Jesus is denouncing in our Thought for the Day and the verses surrounding it. Instead, He posits that those in power have the responsibility to serve the people they hold power over. It's a revolutionary idea, but Jesus was a revolutionary guy! Remember to pray for our politicians today, that they take to heart Christ's words.
