Setting an Example

I just finished watching the vice-presidential debate. Thankfully, it was considerably more civil than what we witnessed in the first presidential debate.

The final question asked by the moderator was submitted by 8th grader Brecklynn Brown. Brecklynn won an essay contest sponsored by the Utah Debate Commission in which students were asked, “If you could ask the vice-presidential candidates one question, what would you ask and why?”

Brecklynn expressed concern about the divisiveness she is witnessing and encouraged the candidates to set a good example. Part of her question read, “If our leaders can’t get along, how are the citizens supposed to get along?” I might slightly rephrase the question to ask, “If the vast majority of the American people can get along, why can’t our leaders?!”

As I wrote in an earlier post, I do not think that we are as divided as many would suggest. We absolutely should expect and demand more from our leaders.

The scripture is clear, that as Christians, we are absolutely expected to set a good example.

Be glad in the Lord always! Again I say, be glad! Let your gentleness show in your treatment of all people. The Lord is near. Don’t be anxious about anything; rather, bring up all of your requests to God in your prayers and petitions, along with giving thanks. Then the peace of God that exceeds all understanding will keep your hearts and minds safe in Christ Jesus.

From now on, brothers and sisters, if anything is excellent and if anything is admirable, focus your thoughts on these things: all that is true, all that is holy, all that is just, all that is pure, all that is lovely, and all that is worthy of praise. Practice these things: whatever you learned, received, heard, or saw in us. The God of peace will be with you.

Philippians 4:4-9