Christian Counseling & Educational Services

Some of you readers are old enough to remember the popular television show called “Candid Camera.” Remember their catch phrase, “Smile! You’re on Candid Camera!” They sent out people to play jokes on others and a hidden camera recorded their reactions. Whether it was a hilarious prank like a talking mailbox that spoke to people as they passed by, or something frustrating such as a plastic bag in the grocery store that wouldn’t open because it was sealed on both ends, peoples’ reactions usually ranged from total frustration, to hilarity, to anger; but just at the right moment, the prankster would shout, “Smile! You’re on Candid Camera” and everyone would have a good laugh.

It had been a particularly heavy day in our counseling office. So many hurting people and so many needs were evident, not only among our counselees, but among our staff as well. As I left that evening, I have to admit that I carried some of that heaviness with me—something I’m not supposed to do.

“Mommy, Mommy, we saw the most beautiful rainbow!” The girls tumbled into the house talking non-stop. I looked out our eastern window, where afternoon rainbows can sometimes be seen after a storm, but there had been no rain.

The 2008 United States presidential election is over! After two years of intense preparation, planning and publicizing the race between John McCain and Barack Obama is done. As with any election, there are those who rejoice with the outcome of the vote, looking forward to the fulfillment of promises made and a bright future; and there are others who mourn, fearing the loss of their dreams, ideals and convictions. Regardless of the outcome of this election or any other, there are certain undeniable truths for us all—

God is still on the throne.

Jesus still saves and keeps.

The Holy Spirit’s power has not been diminished one bit.

And the promises of God’s Word are still true and secure.

Last week I came across the devotional that I presented on October 9, 2006. As we face one of the most significant presidential elections in American history, just reading it again gave me a great sense of peace. So I’m sending it your way, hoping that it will bless and encourage you, too.