It’s early and I was up late, too late, watching the election results. I’ll keep this short, but if I’m your pastor (or friend) then I beg you to read this slowly and thoughtfully.

Regardless of whether you are happy or not about the election results—if you are a Christ-follower you are called to love.

We are never given the option to pick and choose whom we will love.

We are to love our neighbors (even the grumpy ones).

We are to love our family (even the dysfunctional ones).

We are to love those who are right and those who are wrong (perfection and performance are never a basis for love).

We are to love those who persecute us.

We are to love our enemies.

And yes, we are to love Democrats, Republicans, Libertarians, and all.

For those who follow Jesus there is no wiggle room here. Love is not an option, a suggestion, or even just a good idea. Love is a command.

We love as we are loved by the Father. A love that embraced us at our absolute worst by the way.

And for the record, love is a choice not just an emotion.

A choice to care for another whether they care for or about us or not.

A choice to serve with humility, and do what is best for someone else.

A choice to surrender our rights and our needs, and to do unto others as we would have them do unto us.

And dare I say it, a choice to place our political views below, well below, our call to treat one another with honor, compassion, gentleness, and forbearance (Gal. 5:22-23).

So whether you are terrified or thrilled about the election results of 2016, I implore you to love one another. Love is the one command which encompasses all (yes, all) of our relationships.

Those around you are watching and listening.

Are you demonstrating faith?

Are you modeling love for the unloveable?

Are you being kind with your words and in your actions?

Are you gloating or perhaps the opposite extreme, being consumed by fear?

If you follow Jesus, you have chosen a different and better path.

Love.

Enough said.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.

I do not give to you as the world gives.

Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

John 14:27 (NIV)