The Bible tells us that no man can serve two masters. It also reminds us to render unto Caesar what belongs to Caesar and unto God what belongs to God.
Therefore, the news that Pope Leo XIV, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, has submitted a mail-in ballot in the Illinois midterm elections raises an interesting question about the relationship between spiritual leadership and political participation.
As a US citizen, he has the constitutional right to vote. However, should the highest spiritual office in the Catholic Church become involved in the political process, knowing the enormous influence the papacy commands among millions of followers worldwide?
Jesus Christ did not seek political office or earthly political power. His mission was spiritual, centred on salvation, righteousness and the Kingdom of God.
Today, we are witnessing wars, political instability, declining moral standards, technological developments that challenge humanity, and growing uncertainty about the future of mankind.
People increasingly speak about the Last Days and the return of Jesus Christ.
Are these developments signs of the times? Is humanity moving further away from the teachings of God? Are we becoming so consumed by earthly power, politics and material possessions that we are forgetting our spiritual responsibilities?
I am not claiming to know when the end will come. The Bible itself tells us that nobody knows the day or hour.
But perhaps the more important question is this: Are we paying attention to what is happening around us, or have we become so accustomed to the changing world that we no longer recognise the warning signs?
IS THE END NEAR, OR HAVE WE SIMPLY LOST OUR WAY?
Gordon Laughlin,
Westmoorings
