A quick check of the news (both online and on TV) reveals that politics is the top story—and the second story, and the one after that, and so on! And it seems like the mid-term elections have dominated headlines for months, maybe even the whole year.
When we live under that kind of media bombardment, we can get disoriented and begin thinking up is down and down is up. What I mean is this: in our 2026 USA context, followers of Jesus need regular reminders about what’s really real—what’s weighty and urgent and ultimate, what truly matters in the end.
To be sure, political causes often address important issues for a given society—e.g., immigration policy, tax structures, financial regulations. People are helped or hurt by the way such political actions go. Politics has its place, including in Christians’ lives.
But not first place. Think how sad it would be—and dishonoring to the Lord who came to rescue lost sinners like us so we could be forgiven and embraced in the joy of his company forever—if we let today’s rampant political frenzy claim our hearts.
Here’s one way to make this personal: if people who know you well were asked what’s most near and dear to your heart—what moves you, what “gets you going”—would they say the wonder of belonging to Jesus, or a passion for cultural and political gain?
Here’s another angle: what is Jesus up to in this world right now, and do we share his priorities? “I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). “This gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come” (24:14). “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (28:19).
Our culture is screaming at us that the temporary is what really counts: your party, your candidate. Don’t believe it. Give your heart to Jesus, and let him take center stage in your life!
