Oct. 1, Election Day in Brazil

Even though we don’t vote in Brazil, it’s interesting to observe our friends trying to figure out whom to vote for. There are various party choices for state and federal congressmen, governors and president as some 100 million people peacefully cast their ballots today, all using modern computerized voting machines. Our seminary serves as a polling location, eleven different precincts set up in our classrooms. People come and go all day. Attendance was down at Sunday school this AM as everyone must vote and some had to travel to the interior. Our pastor heard a talk about whom a citizen should vote for and shared four points he learned in the Sunday school opening: You should vote for one who (1) Has a calling or commitment to the political process and is not in it for other reasons, (2) Has the necessary preparation for the post he or she is seeking, (3) Can truly represent his or her constituency, knowing well their social interests and needs, and (4) For one who has a basic fear or respect for God. I thought those were good guidelines for voting in any democracy, not just in Brazil. What do you think? Watch the world news and you will probably soon know if President Lula was relected today or if there will be a run off election in a month. May God bless Brazil!