Presidential Candidates: Made in the Image and Likeness of God

I believe it is safe to say that the majority of Americans are not looking forward to the 2024 elections. Alternatively, American politics resembles a circus show, with the spectators pointing, laughing, booing, and brawling over the candidates we treat as “clowns.” President Joe Biden, President Donald Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris - all three have not just been scrutinized, but also mocked and virtually bullied. Even if you yourself have not created a viral Tiktok or Instagram reel mocking one of these candidates, I’m sure you have at least seen one - and perhaps chuckled a bit at it. I know I have. 

However, I recall a moment in the 2016 election campaign where I was certainly convicted by the Holy Spirit. I saw a picture of Trump and Hillary Clinton at a debate with the caption, “No matter where you sit with these two, they are made in the image and likeness of God. Both of them.”

Take a moment and consider this. The old man in the White House, seemingly struggling with severe cognitive impairment. The former businessman and president who was tried and convicted. The woman with a record of mass incarceration and a strong history supporting intrinsic evils such as abortion. As despicable and ridiculous as we may find them, they are made in the image and likeness of God. And He wants them with Him in Heaven.

This election is going to be trying. We certainly will need levity and dialogue to get through the next few months. But for every time you receive a viral tweet or video poking fun at a candidate, say a prayer for them too. Because they too are our brothers and sisters in Christ.