Rev. Erik Swanson
November 8, 2026
I set before you the ways of life and death. Choose life. These words from Deuteronomy 30: 11-20, feel especially meaningful after the momentous events of this past election week. After nearly two years of violence, fear, division, and frustration, it feels as though our country has finally taken a collective breath and chosen a new direction. While it is easy to celebrate the political victories, I believe something much bigger is happening. The Spirit is not about one political party winning or another losing. The Spirit calls us to something more: inclusion, unity, justice, and a renewed commitment to one another.
The Message of Possibility
What was so encouraging about this election was the message of possibility. Across the country, people from different backgrounds, races, religions, and communities were elected to positions of leadership. These results reflect a vision of America that is more inclusive and representative of who we aspire to be. They remind us that the Spirit can work through unexpected places and people to bring new life and hope.
Building Bridges
Of course, we do not all feel the same way about the election, and that is okay. Some are celebrating, some are relieved, and others are grieving. What matters is that we continue to respect one another and recognize that we are all navigating this moment together. Choosing life means building bridges across political differences, listening to those with whom we disagree, and treating one another with compassion.
There’s Still Work To Do
We must also remember that this election is not the end of the work. Systemic racism, economic inequality, immigration concerns, and other injustices remain. Our newly elected leaders must be held accountable, not to seek revenge or punish political opponents, but to pursue justice, protect voting rights, improve health care, and ensure that all people are represented and cared for. Power and money can be seductive, regardless of political affiliation, and our leaders must remain grounded in the deeper values of the Spirit.
Seeking Truth
Another important part of choosing life is seeking truth. We live in a world filled with misinformation, fear, and political manipulation. The Spirit continually calls us to look beyond the threats and falsehoods and seek deeper truths, even when those truths are uncomfortable. Discernment, honesty, and the courage to see things as they really are essential to creating a healthier society.
Creating An Oasis
This is also the heart of what we strive to do at Westhope. Our ministry is about creating an oasis in a world that can leave us exhausted and discouraged. We want to provide a place where people can recharge, ask questions, explore their spirituality, experience silence, and deepen their relationship with the Holy. Rather than focusing primarily on sin, brokenness, and avoiding death, we want to help people discover what it means to embrace life.
Supporting Our Westhope Community
Our annual Stewardship Campaign is about more than simply funding another year of ministry. It is about supporting a community that offers hope, encouragement, spiritual growth, and a place where people can repeatedly choose life. Together, we can sustain this oasis for ourselves and for those who will come after us.
It’s A Daily Commitment
Ultimately, choosing life is a daily commitment. It applies to our politics, our finances, our relationships, and our spirituality. My hope is that Westhope continues to encourage each of us to make that choice, wherever life takes us. May we keep listening for the Spirit, working for justice, building bridges, seeking truth, and choosing life for ourselves, our communities, and our nation.
Blessings to us all as we begin this next part of the journey. May the Spirit guide us along the way. Amen.