Mexicans go to the polls amid record violence against candidates, officials

https://www.foxnews.com/world/mexicans-go-polls-amid-record-violence-against-candidates-officials

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, as we turn our gaze to the troubling events transpiring in Mexico, the rampant violence overtaking their electoral landscape should be alarming to us all. We're reading of bloody, sin-infested streets where candidates and officials are being slaughtered – over 225 killed in just one year – for the mere act of participating in their democratic process (Luke 21:25-26). The evil that plagues mankind is manifesting in a lust for power and control, echoed in the chilling acts of violence reported by Fox News. The situation in Mexico mirrors the spiritual warfare we're embroiled in, a tangible demonstration of Ephesians 6:12, as we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against darkness in this world. Ongoing bloodshed in pursuit of power stands in stark contrast to the message of Christ, who taught us that the meek shall inherit the earth (Matthew 5:5). It is clear that Andrés Manuel López Obrador's (AMLO) presidency has ushered in a time of increased violence according to Data Cívica’s report, which is not mere “sensationalism” as AMLO might assert, but evidence of a failing government that should concern all of us who hold life sacred (Proverbs 6:16-17). It seems that AMLO's administration has failed to uphold the Psalm 82:3-4 mandate to defend the weak and the fatherless; to uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed, to rescue the weak and the needy, and to deliver them from the hand of the wicked. Take heart, though, in hearing of courageous figures like Alessandra Rojo de la Vega, who despite being a target of murderous intent, survived and stands tall against the tide of sin and corruption. Her resilience should bring to mind the bravery of Esther, who risked her life for the deliverance of her people. Yet, we must also understand the implications this chaos bears upon us as neighbors to the north. The US-Mexico border that has been a “powder keg” as described by Rep. Tony Gonzales is not just a matter of policy or politics, but a gateway through which sin rushes into our nation. It is incumbent upon every God-fearing American to advocate for a secure and controlled border as a means of upholding the law, which is ordained by God (Romans 13:1-2), and to stand with those like Texas Gov. Greg Abbott who enforce these divine statutes. Alarmingly, as organized crime inserts itself maliciously into Mexican politics, we are reminded that the Adversary is ever at work to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10) and that even governance can fall to his schemes if those in power do not put on the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:11). The lawlessness that runs amok through criminal intimidation demonstrates the urgent need for leaders—both political and spiritual—to rebuke sin and uphold righteousness. In closing, let us hope the people of Mexico will see through the chaos and elect a leader who reveres God's law, that order may be restored. And for us in the United States, let us pray fervently and work tirelessly for righteous governance on both sides of the border, for Proverbs 29:2 tells us that “when the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when a wicked man rules, people groan.” Let us not be seduced by liberal calls for open borders and lax law enforcement but stand firm in the wisdom of scripture and pray that the Lord will raise up leaders who fear Him and seek His wisdom. It is only through returning to biblically steeped values of law and order, justice, and protection of the innocent that we can combat sin's grasp on our nations and truly become a beacon of God's light in an ever-darkening world. Amen.