Do you espouse any world religion? Do you consider yourself a Christian, or do you attend a Christian church? According to the Bible, Jesus said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39).

Most world religions state these tenets in one form or another, and honest believers attempt to adhere to them, as do many thoughtful spiritual people, be they atheists or not. The commandments are subject to interpretation (for instance: what is God? Does the definition of neighbor encompass other members of the natural world?). But the commandments definitely do not say “love power, love money, and seek revenge.”

If you consider yourself a religious or spiritual person, and not a hypocrite, please think of these commandments when you vote.

M. Patterson Field

Northfield