My Election Day Litany
As election night draws near for the United States of America my heart worries that as red and blue Americas we will choose to fan the flames of polarization that divide us rather than seep deeper into our call to love our neighbors. The polarization in my community and in the country leaves me feeling defenseless and inadequate. I hope for unity, a unity we have often leaned into in times of trail, but I admit I have doubt. I feel anxious about the outcome and how we will choose to respond to one another as the results are a constant barrage of numbers scrolling across the screen. As the hour draws closer, I wanted something to redirect my anxiety and fear – to point me back to God in a way that brings trust and security.
This Election Day Litany was born out of this desire. I will say this each day until the results are announced – and perhaps after. I will say this when I feel anxious, or when I feel frustration or anger creeping into my own heart. I invite you to join me and to share this with others feeling the same fear and anxiety. May the repetition of this litany bring you comfort, and may you remember that the Spirit intercedes on our behalf.
My Election Day Litany
God of the universe, I come to you now as the United States of America navigates this presidential election. Lord, hear my prayer.
Speak clearly to me, guide my thoughts and actions as I actively exercise my right to vote for those who will lead this country. Lord, hear my prayer.
Open my ears to hear your voice in my neighbors – all my neighbors, red neighbors, and blue neighbors – those with whom I agree and disagree. Lord, hear my prayer.
Place before me the realities of others, educate me so I may better understand why they differ from me when making their own choices. Lord, hear my prayer.
Guard my heart and my tongue from arrogance or rivalry as the results are announced. Lord, hear my prayer.
Call me to action – generous action – to build up red neighbors and blue neighbors as the days and weeks stretch on beyond election day. Lord, hear my prayer.
Use me to build harmony, not dissension, despite my own feelings as I process the results in the hours and days that follow. Lord, hear my prayer.
Remind me again and again that you are the Lord of my life and regardless of my fear or anxiety, you do not abandon me or my neighbors. Lord, hear my prayer.
To you, O Lord, I lift up these petitions, knowing that I cannot control those around me, only myself, and I don’t have the strength to even do that well. I need you to make me an open vessel of your peace and grace that others might see you through my responses.
In the name of the one who came down from heaven, to rule with love and forgiveness – your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen