Don’t Rely On Obama

By Anne Jackson

Published: November 09, 2008

I am not a political person. I don’t enjoy discussing politics much because, to me, it seems almost as fruitless as discussing the grey areas of theology. Just lots of opinions going ’round and ’round and ’round. I don’t like things that go ’round and ’round and ’round. But hey, that’s just me.

America is full of mixed emotions now. Some are angry that the perceived anti-Christ and his liege of evil, democratic minions are calling the shots. Some are elated that the party tables have turned around a little bit and are looking forward to the change that could bring. Some are disappointed, but hopeful.

This post has nothing to do with Obama winning last Tuesday night. This post has to do with us, the American people. If anything, this election has shown us that change is possible. That hope is present. And that there is a new generation of leaders that are excited and optimistic about the future - regardless of who is hanging out in the White House.

By the time I woke up this morning, my inbox was already inundated with “sure, everyone is hopeful, but once they see Obama can’t deliver, they’ll be let down.” And I think that is an immature and ridiculous way of looking at the current state of our country.

Why?

We shouldn’t rely on Obama. Or congress. Or the house. We should rely on each other. On the American people. In the last year, we have united like never before. We have celebrated and challenged the status quo and passionately supported people we believe in.

At this pivotal time in our nation, I ask that you do a few things:

  1. If you’re whining, stop.
  2. Look around your own neighborhood. What needs to change? Get to know your neighbors and make those changes!
  3. What’s going on in your city? More importantly, who is leading your city? Get involved and share your voice. And get to work!
  4. What’s a cause you believe in? For me, it’s healthcare. There are local and regional organizations for just about anything under the sun. Find them. Join them. Get to know your state representatives and congress people. Let them know how they can best serve you.
  5. Pray. Obama can’t change the world. But he sure could use your support and prayers, whether you agree with his position on issues or not.

Don’t rely on Obama to guide this country into the future. You have responsibility beyond voting.

So ask yourself, as an American, what are you going to do with that?

Anne Jackson serves on staff at Cross Point Church in Nashville, Tennessee. Her book, Mad Church Disease, will be available in February 2009. Anne’s articles have been published in a variety of print and online magazines, and her blog, FlowerDust.net, is ranked as one of the top blogs in Christian Leadership. She is an advocate for Compassion International, a down-to-earth communicator, and an all around dreamer.

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