After a turbulent election season, we know the results. And while elections have real consequences, we know that regardless of which party controls the government, the earthly empire never has the final say.
As I’ve thought about what will sustain me in the days ahead, I’ve been heartened to remember that we are not the first people who have struggled to be faithful under the thumb of oppressive leadership. I’ve especially been thinking of the stories in Exodus: Shiphrah and Puah, the courageous midwives who rejected Pharaoh’s demand to murder male children (Exodus 1:15-22), God’s promise to Moses (Exodus 3:12), and Miriam who led her people in song after escaping the confines of slavery in Egypt (Exodus 15:20-21). The God of Exodus and our God of today are one and the same. Our God is one who remains steady in times of great upheaval and tyrannical leadership.
Therefore, with a great cloud of witnesses, we pray:
Ageless God, we seek the wisdom of Shiphrah and Puah,
midwives who defied Pharaoh’s orders and instead protected life.Like the Hebrew women living under empire,
teach us how to create systems of mutual aid, community care, and resistance.Help us center the vulnerable, so that all may experience abundant life, resisting the pain of empire.
We know, O God, that white supremacy, xenophobia, and homophobia must be defeated, no matter who holds dominion.
Give us strength to resist whenever a child of God is dehumanized.
God who is greater than all kings, may we remember the wisdom of our ancestors — their songs, prayers, and guidance.
May we remember your words to Moses when he feared Pharaoh’s wrath:
“I will be with you.”In times of trial, faith has always found a way.
Along with the midwives, we hold on to the witness of Miriam,
who in fleeing Egypt had the forethought to grab her tambourine,
knowing that one day joy would be necessary.God of liberation, we know that one day the captives shall be free.
We know that one day your peace shall have the final word.
Until that day, may we hold each other tightly,
work for your beloved community to reign supreme,
and live together in pursuit of peace for all of God’s children.Amen.
Rev. Kaeley McEvoy is the the fellowship program director and staff chaplain at Sojourners.
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