Obama - a victory for those in need?

There are many things about Obama's victory over McCain that I have concern about. For example, I am extremely concerned about the out of control growth of government spending. Federal expenditures grew during Clinton, grew during Bush, and will continue to grow as a percent of GDP under Obama. I am concerned about what this means in terms of abortion rights and the impact on the unborn. And I have other concerns as well - frankly, I still do not believe he has the experience and qualifications.

But all that said, I celebrate his election in terms of the overall meaning of a minority winning election to the highest office in our country. In 40 years, to move from the voter rights movement of the mid-60s to electing a black man to the Presidency is monumental. It is evidence that maybe our country is beginning to believe that all men are created equal, and all are created in God's image.

But there remain inequities, and racism and inequality still exist in the United States and the world. If you don't believe that, read the story of the failed assassination attempt on Obama.

And yet, Obama's victory offers a unique opportunity. Don't misunderstand - the opportunity isn't to create equality by redistributing wealth or promoting the "Fairness Doctrine." The opportunity is an authentic pursuit of justice and reconciliation between blacks and whites, between the wealthy and poor, and yes even between Democrats and Republicans. But the reconciliation will only occur if all sides make a decision to engage in civil discourse...voluntarily.

In this time of economic uncertainty, we have a very important opportunity as well. We can reach out to those in need, to those struggling to pay their bills or buy food, and take action. It doesn't matter what color, religion, or political party, we have the chance, right now, to prove Obama's election isn't just window dressing.

Obama stated in a speech, "Let us be our brother's keeper, Scripture tells us. Let us be our sister's keeper. Let us find that common stake we all have in one another, and let our politics reflect that spirit as well." Jesus conveyed these thoughts throughout his public ministry. He called us to care for the "least of these" - those hungry, thirsty and imprisoned. Sadly in our country, in this country of great wealth and prosperity, we fail to do so.

The Obama presidency can become everything his supporter's hope for. It can be an administration of "change." But it can only be so if partisan, vitriolic comments on both sides of the aisle cease and the country pursues a path reflective of the life of Jesus. The government will solve nothing, but people can. If you are an Obama supporter, don't wait for him and the federal government to do anything - take action on your own. And if you are a McCain supporter, then prove to others you care about more than just taxes. Get involved, take action, and solve problems, whether big or small.

Peace.