Dear Friends in the Presbytery of Boston,

As we wait for the results of the election, the lectionary reminds us of Matthew 24 and 25, when Jesus warned of difficult and uncertain times ahead. As non-citizens under imperial domination, Jesus and the disciples had little control over the world in which they lived. Instead of pursuing violence and harmful rhetoric, Jesus invited the disciples and all who would follow him to seek an alternative life of faithfulness to the values of God’s reign.

Those values are clearly articulated in the Matthew 25 vision that we have embraced in the Presbyterian Church and in our Presbytery. Loving God with all of who we are and likewise loving our neighbors as ourselves is expressed through our commitment to build vital congregations, dismantle structural racism, and eradicate systemic poverty. It is in doing this work that we glorify God, share the love of Jesus, and act through the Spirit’s anointing.

Whatever the outcome of the 2020 elections, we will continue to “be faithful and keep watch”. We will strive to be faithful disciples and to invite others into this way of life that focuses on love and justice. We will recommit ourselves and our faith communities to the Matthew 25 vision, building stamina for the race we are called to run. We do not know when God will establish God's Kin-dom on earth as it is in heaven, but we know we are called to this work here and now.

In Christ,
Cindy Kohlmann and T. J. DeMarco