Last night (Israel time) I watched in horror as first President Trump worked up a massive crowd of his supporters, fanning the flames of misplaced righteous indignation, and then launched that crowd at the Capital Building where the Joint Houses of Congress were meeting to confirm the duly received and recorded votes of the Electoral College. Suddenly the scene erupted into chaotic insurrection and wanton destruction of government property. According to various news services, such an action has not occurred since the US Capitol was overrun by the British in August of 1814, during the War of 1812.

During the ensuing actions, a demonstrator was shot and killed in the act of attempting to break into one of the governmental chambers. It was later confirmed that three other individuals, one female and two males, suffered separate medical emergencies resulting in their deaths. This loss of life is regrettable, and I pray that their families might receive consolation from our LORD as only he can provide.

I am sure you have all seen the news, and regardless of your position on the political spectrum, you were probably shocked by both the actions and the outcomes of the insurrection. So, instead of adding to the rhetoric, I want to encourage you to follow the exhortation that Rav Shaul commanded Timothy when he wrote, 

Therefore, first of all I urge that requests, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made on behalf of all people—for kings and all who are in authority—so we may live a peaceful and quiet life in all godliness and respectfulness. This is good and pleasing in the sight of God our Savior. He desires all men to be saved and come into the knowledge of the truth.

1 Timothy 2:1-4

And then with these words from Peter as he wrote to his community in the Diaspora, 

For the LORD’s sake, submit yourselves to every human authority—whether to a king as supreme, or to governors sent by him for the punishment of those who do evil and the praise of those who do good. For this is God’s will, that you silence the ignorance of foolish men by doing good.Live as free people, but not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil. Rather, live as God’s slaves. Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.

1 Peter 2:13-17

The United States and her government, both outgoing and incoming, desperately need our prayers today and in the coming weeks during the time of transition. People, on both sides of the electoral divide, need to hear and experience words of shalom and of hope for a better future. And it just so happens that we have the words from the Father of comfort that so many need,

Fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Surely I will help you. I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10

Let’s agree together to be that source of hope and healing that so many of our friends, neighbors, and acquaintances are in such desperate need of today.

Shalom u’mevorach

Michael