What town hall meetings?

August has traditionally been a slow news month partly because Congress is in recess. Not so this year. Lawmakers have returned to their home districts to find a usually compliant constituency very anxious over the skyrocketing federal handouts and proposed government takeover of the nation’s health care system. Instead of local libraries, the solons have been forced to move town hall meetings to large public auditoriums. I tried to attend one at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts in my home town and couldn’t get in. Over a thousand citizens filled the “Center” to capacity with hundreds more turned away.

But even amidst the ever-roiling political developments, I have been wonderfully reminded that God is still placing His people in key positions of influence.

This month I was invited to join several pastors and elected officials for dinner with a high-ranking Vatican official who was visiting Seattle. While we enjoyed some small talk in the realm of state and world politics, I was delighted that this official really only wanted to talk about JESUS. There is no doubt in my mind that both he and his wife have experienced a life changing encounter with the Lord of lords and the King of kings!

Another special event on my calendar for August was the ordination of a long-time friend to the Anglican priesthood. I first met him through our countywide jail ministry. For some years following his retirement as an Air Force colonel, he had felt God’s call to full-time ministry. I can’t say I know any other pastors or priests who first served thirty years in the military in preparation for such a calling, but I can say I believe this particular man is certainly called.

And, I just met a (Nigerian) brother in the Lord that attends a local Calvary Chapel. He and his family will be returning to his homeland in a few days to plant churches. But things are somewhat tenuous in Nigeria because of recent political changes—the former president was Christian and the current leader is Muslim. My friend well understands that elections have consequences. Even so, he also knows God is still on His throne.

What struck me is that all three: the Vatican official, the Anglican priest and the protestant missionary, serving on different continents in quite different capacities and expressions, are totally onboard with you and me on local and world issues. They hold the same views on most social issues, tax and spending issues (even the Obama administration) and most importantly—they are hoping for the soon return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

How great it is to have so many brothers and sisters in the Lord around the world who don’t need to watch FOX News to be of the same mind and purpose. Makes one forget what the town hall meetings were about.