But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile … for in its welfare you will find your welfare.
—Jeremiah 29:7
This is your reminder to vote.
Vote for the welfare of…everybody.
If Jeremiah can ask Jewish exiles to seek the welfare of Babylon, surely we can vote with the welfare of our neighbors in mind.
No, not that kind of welfare. Government welfare is a highly debated issue—but I’m talking about a simpler kind of welfare—literally, that everyone should have a chance to fare well. The Hebrew word is even more powerful: Shalom—peace, wholeness, flourishing.
I think Jeremiah is absolutely right. We should be seeking this. Even when it’s hard. Remember, God tells the exiles to seek the welfare of the very people who conquered them.
Not just with words. With actions.
Voting is one of those actions. Pick the candidates, no matter their party affiliation, who would take Jeremiah’s words to heart.
That’s just a good starting place, but seeking the welfare of others takes commitment. Faith and good works.
When we choose to prioritize our lives around this simple understanding, Jeremiah suggests something miraculous happens:
Our own welfare increases.
The act of seeking the welfare of others is inseparable from how well we fare.
This is just another way of expressing love for God, neighbor, and self.
So, when you vote this week…
Don’t forget…
to make everyone’s welfare
your platform.
Have a good week,
Mitch
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