God's Plan for Restoration

There is a lot of talk about politics and government these days and for good reason, we are about to elect the next president.  It is important for all of us to be informed and to vote.  I started reading a book yesterday which reminded me that as important as this election is, and as important as government may be (with the understanding of our forefathers that "the government that governs best, governs least"), that the hope for restoration is not found in government.  It is found in a place populated by the people of God, flawed as they may be.  Bill Hybels in his book Courageous Leadership, lays out his vision for God's plan for restoration:
There is nothing like the local church when it's working right.  Its beauty is indescribable.  Its power is breathtaking.  Its potential is unlimited.  It comforst the grieving and heals the broken in the context of community.  It builds bridges to seekers and offers truth to the confused.  It provides resources for those in need and opens it arms to the forgotten, the downtrodden, the disillusioned.  It  breaks the chains of addicitons, frees the oppressed, and offers belonging to the marginalized of this world.  Whatever the capacity for human suffering, the church has a greater capacity for healing and wholeness. 
God's church can do what government can never do, speak to the heart in a way that changes a life. When you pray for the upcoming election, take some time to also pray for spiritual revival and awakening.  It will make all the difference.
Blessings,
Dr. Paul