More Than the White House

Our eyes have been focused on that place in D.C.
where the head of our nation resides.
That mansion with pillars near Capitol Hill
is a place some fear tyranny hides.

We've come to believe what takes place there is huge.
That the President takes precedent
over every day doings and choices we make
and the dollars we've saved or we've spent.

But it's more than the White House, it's also your home.
Who lives there determines much more
than Trump or Obama or Clinton or Bush,
McCain, Edwards, Romney or Gore.

The hope of our country cannot be defined
by one President's goodness or sin.
What dictates our future are those in our house
and the values we nurture within.

Our attitudes, actions, reactions and talk
reveal what exists in our hearts.
The Savior insisted the fruit of a tree
is the proof if it's sweet or it's tart.

And if we are seeking to live as God asks,
the impact is sure to be known.
The virtues and righteousness practiced by most
can't be trumped by one leader alone.

The strength of our nation consists (as it were)
through the prayers and the faith of its folk.
The gauge of a people is not in one man
or the promises candidates spoke.

We're called to contend on our knees for the one
who's elected, appointed or crowned.
The prayers of God's people will prompt those who lead
to remember they're on holy ground.

And more than just praying God calls us to live
in such a way so as to love
the ones who disgust us (who bully and boast)
whose tactics we're embarrassed of.

We are called to be loving, forgiving and kind
and model what Jesus would do.
Giving our enemies chances to change
in spite of the goals they eschew.

We're invited to practice the presence of God
every day and in every place.
We serve Him by helping the lost and the least
and extending "unlovables" grace.

And though not elected, we're ambassadors
and our homes are the Lord's embassy.
The Kingdom of Heaven is modeled on earth
in a way that our neighbors can see.

We're creating a culture that can't be contained
by the walls of the homes where we live.
It's a culture of kindness where peace is pursued
and where those who have plenty will give.

And yet in the meantime, let's pray for the one
who has just been elected to lead.
Let's ask God Almighty to bless Donald Trump
and provide him the help that he needs.

*based on these words from St. Paul: "I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people? 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people..." (1 Timothy 2:1-6)