I find it so tempting to hide from all-things media because of our current season’s divisive and even demeaning culture. Instead, I’ve chosen to lean-in and listen. And what I’ve heard more than anything is fear.
Underlying the hate is fear of change.
Underlying the mudslinging is fear of rejection.
Underlying all the threats is the fear of loss of power.
Most of us, if honest, would admit we fear change and rejection. Perhaps, though, we’ve not stopped to consider that we fear losing power — or maybe a better word would be control.
What does it look like to stop fearing that loss of power or control?
It looks like having faith. Faith in a God who never changes. Who sees everything. Who loves everyone and thing in His creation.
How beautiful would it be if we all took a step back in the next few days and weeks to breathe and listen? To turn to God with our fears and seek the faith we need to keep moving forward into an unknown future. Trusting that God goes with us. And He will make a way.
What if we went to the polls this week with less hate, less fear, and chose, instead, to vote our consciences with the hope that no matter the results, God will still be the one in control?
Shelley Johnson 
Hate and fear, they roam the land,
whole world’s in a real muck sweat
from the flames so gladly fanned
by bloody Internet.
He was your cobber yeterday,
but today you don’t agree,
so poobahs would make sure you say
the he is now your enemy.
They would take away your song,
your dinkum tune, your true coo-ee,
sweet avro by the billabong
to make the world a foul dunny.
But you don’t have to buy it, mate;
don’t let their aggro be your fate.