July 8, 2026

The President’s approval rating is currently hovering around 36%. That is really poor. If you were his political opponent, this would be an incredible opportunity since mid-term elections are just around the corner. Wouldn’t you expect a landslide of victories by his political opposition? One would think, but there is a recurring problem: It is really difficult to find someone to run for office who doesn’t have some serious skeletons in their closet, or in the trunk of their car.

Seriously, is this the best we can do? I am not being flattering when I say that I look at many of the members of our church and am absolutely convinced that many of you could do a much better job than those we often elect. The problem plagues both major political parties and if you know anything about history, the problem is certainly not new.

A look at political history always causes students to shake their heads in amazement at how certain people actually get into power. Currently Vladimir Putin appears to be hell-bent on burning Russia to the ground rather than admit his colossal failure in his war with Ukraine and sue for peace. Putin is just the latest leader in a very long list of names whose massive ego blinds him to any sense of reality. It’s the regular people who pay the price.

The corruption and/or incompetence of so many in positions of power can be disheartening, but it is the story of life east of Eden. Let this disillusionment of this world motivate your longing for the kingdom of Christ that is coming. Jesus does not use his power to enrich himself, since he owns it all anyway. Jesus does not use his authority to demand flattery or cover-up any nefarious events in his past. Our king came to serve, not to be served. He came to die, so he could give us life, not to take our lives. His reign will be marked by life-giving, joy-sharing, peace-enjoying, and a delirious satisfaction that is beyond anything we can imagine.

I wonder just how jaded we really are. We are so accustomed to being let down and lied to, that we all live with a layer of suspicion that seems normal to us and yet, it really isn’t. One day, the recognized Leader of our existence will make all things right and will keep all things right. We will pinch ourselves in amazement that this new reality is ours, forever.

So, beloved, in your thoughts and values, aim for heaven. It will never disappoint. If your heart aims for earth, it will never satisfy. Keep praying, “Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”

Grace and peace,

Bob

Sunday’s Text: Luke 20:45-47