08 Nov May Your Soul Get Along Well

Church family,

My heartfelt prayer for you today is, as 3 John 2 puts it, “that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”

The apostle John wrote this to his friend, Gaius, who was experiencing a time of confusion: the church was experiencing persecution and church leaders and other members were acting in ways and making decisions that reflected poorly on “the Name.”

John appeals to his friend Gaius not to imitate what is evil, but to imitate (literally “mimic”) what is good, “for the sake of the Name” (verse 7).

As we move through this time of political transition, our circumstances feel similar to those in John’s day. We, too, have recently faced confusing times, uncertainty about the government, and behavior from Christians that reflects poorly on “the Name.”

Now that the election results are in, how do we do what is good for the sake of the Name so that our souls and our church can “get along well?”

I have spent the last three years researching the intersection of race, religion, and politics in the United States for my doctoral degree. I have often been surprised by the complexities surrounding people’s reasons and motivations for voting as they did, as well as their feelings regarding political outcomes.

At a diverse church like Mosaic, some of us may feel encouraged by the election results for a variety of reasons. And at a diverse church like Mosaic, some of us may feel discouraged by the election results for a variety of reasons. Whatever you may be feeling, allow me to offer some practices and perspectives for the coming days, in your heart, in your home, around your table and in your community groups:

1. If you are encouraged by the election results, pursue humility and a gracious tone.

Presidents come and presidents go, but the Kingdom of Jesus remains.

2. If you are discouraged by the election results, pursue hope and connection in meaningful ways.

Presidents come and presidents go, but the Kingdom of Jesus remains.

3. All Christians should avoid demonization of others, and be cautious with their words in delicate moments.

4. Remember we are commanded to pray for our leaders and love our enemies.

5. Remember we are called to resist evil and injustice–and overcome it with good.

6. Stay off of social media and go for a walk or watch a movie.

7. Be present in worship on Sundays (especially this week!).

It’s always good to remember that every day is still a good day to make disciples of Jesus as we take every joy and sorrow to the cross.

I’m glad to be with you!

May all go well with you, and may your soul get along well–not because of who is at the top of any government, but because of who is on the throne–and, because of who is walking with you.

See you Sunday,

Morgan Stephens
Lead Pastor