By Dr. Mark Creech
Christian Action League
June 6, 2016
In his comedy routine, the late Milton Berle used to say:
“Since perestroika and glasnost, the Russians have changed their electoral system. A man went in to vote and was handed a sealed ballot. He started to tear it open. An election official said, ‘What are you doing, Igor?’
“I’m opening the ballot. I want to see who I voted for.
“‘You’re not supposed to know. This is a secret ballot!’ said the election official.”
Tuesday, June 7th, North Carolinians get to participate in a privilege unknown by many in other countries – a free election.
In our Representative Republic, voting is something to be treated as holy. Theodore Hesburgh once wrote, “Voting is a civic sacrament.”
There are currently some very important races on the ballot. The candidates embody positions on issues that will deeply impact the lives of thousands, perhaps millions, for many years to come.
One important contest is for a seat on the State Supreme Court, which could tip the balance of the power. And then there are U.S. Congressional seats to be determined. In other places, there will be special elections on the ballot that pertain to matters such as alcohol sales – a question that always involves numerous other issues that impact the public’s health.
Make no mistake, the turnout for this Primary Election could be small, but the outcome will unquestionably be huge.
Let me urge my Christian brethren to let the Word of God be their guide when voting. When voting for a candidate for office, throw your support for the one whose principles and platform either agrees or mostly agrees with your own Christian position, based on the Scriptures.
People have shed their blood, sacrificed their every possession, and sustained incomparable losses in war and various other political struggles to secure the right for all of us to vote. It is a sacrilege to neglect it.
Besides, regardless of what naysayers may say, your vote does make a difference. Repeatedly in this nation elections are won or lost by just a handful of votes.
Don’t forget. You have a duty to perform Tuesday, June 7th. Let me urge you to make it a priority that you may be found worthy of the privilege.
God Bless,
Dr. Mark Creech
Executive Director
Christian Action League of North Carolina, Inc.