I could watch the 24-hour news channels 24 hours a day. Current events fascinate me; however, I feel increasinglyIcompelled to act on what I see and hear. I believe our civic duty involves more than casting a vote every two or four years. The people in our local, state, and national offices are making decisions that affect our daily lives. Edmund Burke said, “All that is necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing.” How can you make a difference?

1. Vote
     This most basic of rights and responsibilities in a democratic society was exercised by only about 65% of registered voters in the 2000 election, which does not include non-registered but eligible voters. Recent elections show voters have been evenly divided ideologically between the two major political parties, which means that your vote can make a great difference in the outcome of elections. Most Americans are aware of the controversy surrounding the general election in Florida in 2000. That state’s electoral votes eventually went to George W. Bush with a difference of 537 votes between the two major party candidates.
     If you are concerned about the future of this country for your children, you are obligated to make an informed, prayerful decision on whom you believe God would have serve in the political offices of this country, and then to vote based on that decision.

2. Contribute
     Politics can be a dirty business. The “mud-slinging” seems to get worse with each election. Unsavory tactics can keep Christians from becoming involved with political campaigns at all, however, Christians in politics do exist and sometimes thrive despite the difficult environment. They, as well as other qualified candidates, need your support. Campaigns (much like churches) rely on volunteers. Tasks like making phone calls, distributing yard signs, sending out mailings, and attending rallies and events for the candidate can involve as little as a few hours of your time. Contact your local or state political party organization if you are interested. Helen Keller said, “For His sake: I am but one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. What I can do, I ought to do. What I ought to do, by the grace of God I will do. Lord, what will you have me do?” The “something” we offer will make a difference.

3. Contact
Once elected officials are in place, our job is not over. Many decisions will come their way during their term of service. We have the right, even the responsibility, to express our beliefs regarding the issues on which they are voting. David Barton once asked a congressman what it takes to influence his vote. The congressman said that five to ten letters on any issue is normal and that fifty letters signify a really “hot issue”; however, twenty letters would be enough to make him reconsider his position. * A phone call, letter, or e-mail to your congressman is a quick and simple way to influence legislation. This does require keeping up with current events in order to present your position in a clear and concise manner. Many Web sites are available for information (see sidebar). Some Christian Web sites offer biblically-based perspectives.

4. Call on God
     This is the most important step to support your legislators and to influence legislation. Proverbs 21:1 says, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord; He directs it like a watercourse wherever He pleases.” Isn’t it reassuring to know that the Lord is in control of our leaders and can direct their decisions as He desires? Our responsibility is to hold them up in prayer. Consider dropping a short note to let your leaders know they are in your prayers.
     Regardless of your views on politics, it affects each of us. To live in a democratic society is to believe the future is in the power of the individual and not the government itself. Those individuals who become involved in the government or in expressing their opinions will be the ones who influence the laws and the direction of this great land.
     Will you choose to be involved?

*www.wallbuilders.com/resources/search/detail.php?ResourceID=64)

 Angela Thompson, a graduate of Central Bible College in Springfield, Missouri, has a passion for sharing the love of Jesus with children and for equipping them to become fully devoted followers of Christ. She serves as the Pastor of Children’s Ministries at Church of the Open Bible in Waverly, Iowa.