The first presidential debate was held last Tuesday at 6 pm. Either by God’s grace or by trying to force too much into my schedule, I had to inform my wife that I would not be making it home to watch it with her. By most accounts, it was a good thing that I missed the debate in its entirety. I knew deep down that watching our two presidential candidates debate would make me uncomfortable and anxious.

When the debate ended, my phone started blowing up. Friends and family asked me what I thought of the debate. A text thread that I am part of broke out with quotes from the debate, which started a debate of its own about “who won” and “who looked worse.” All this caused toxic emotions to well up within me. The next day came the reactions of the media and friends on social media, and I saw how Americans now choose to debate and deal with their neighbors.

In the last week, I have spent time reading and meditating on Matthew 22, hoping that it would transform me to love the Lord with all of my being, and to love my neighbor as I love myself. I have different opinions on political and social issues than my neighbors, so it is more important than ever for me to listen. When I listen to them, I can learn more about what is going on in their lives, where they are coming from, and what they worry about.

Regardless of who wins our presidential election on November 3, I will be able to wake up on November 4 to thank, praise, and love the Lord before I walk out my door ready to love my neighbor and share with them the good news of Jesus’ reign above it all! 

Rev. Joe Robb