Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Isaiah 45:1, 4-6
1 Thessalonians 1:1-5b
Matthew 22:15-21

Today’s Gospel reminds me of the questions Catholics are asking bishops during this election year. The dialogue is similar to the ones we hear wherever Catholics gather and speak of being Catholic and American. In short, what are our responsibilities as citizens when we vote in a presidential election? Our bishops have given us guidance in a document called “Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship.” Some would say that the bishops have said too much and others would claim they have not said enough. Whatever one’s opinion, it is clear that voting demands education, discernment and prayer.

No believer would deny that our concerns about the future of our country are soul-deep. Clearly there are moral issues at stake in this election. Some of the most significant moral issues of our day have become political questions and Catholics have an obligation to know where candidates stand on these issues. Voting is not merely a matter of civic duty; it is a moral responsibility.

The bishops have identified seven significant moral issues which we should consider when we vote. They have produced a document that helps us weigh the importance of each issue. The bishops are not telling us how to vote. This is something we must do for ourselves. They are challenging us to be informed in the light of the Gospel.
Jesus was not a politician and the bishops are not running for national or even local office. They have learned their lessons from the Lord. Again and again, we find them pointing to “our coin of tribute”: the right to vote. Like Jesus, they do not answer the question they are being asked. Instead, they ask another question...and another...and another. What are our responsibilities toward the unborn? Toward those who have no advocate besides ourselves? Who are the people who will best represent our option toward the poor and the disenfranchised?

Here in Oregon, we have been asked to vote on initiatives that reflect our willingness to care for those who cannot help themselves. We are being asked to vote on referenda that set ethical directions for our state. The dialogue ends at the polling place as we are asked to choose officials whose stance toward life ought to mirror our own. The decision is ours, but the issue has been clarified by the teaching of the Church.

We know we are not simply Americans. We are American Catholics challenged to elect officials and support legislation that will represent us in a way that makes Christianity possible and viable in our United States.

The first reading is an account of God’s empowering Cyrus for the sake of Israel. For the sake of Americans, public officials are elected. Like Paul, we “keep thanking God” for those who have power and pray that they will prove their faith, labor in love, and that they will show constancy in hope.

At this liturgy, we are reminded to pray for all public officials and people in leadership positions. We recall that leadership must be directed toward the kingdom of God. We pray that we will have the courage and conviction to vote with Christian vision.