Letter: A scriptural response to recent election changes

Inspired by the Sojourners organization, I would like to offer a scriptural rebuttal to the election interference attempted by the current administration. In response to the suppression of nonviolent democratic political activity, the manipulation of election rules and the tragic reversal of civil rights protections, it may be helpful to recall what the prophet Isaiah (Chapter 10) declared: 'Woe to those who make unjust laws, to those who issue oppressive decrees, to deprive the poor of their rights and withhold justice from the oppressed of my people.' Also of note, in considering the falsehoods which many Republican politicians are offering as rationale for election interference, is the wisdom of Psalm 34, which teaches, 'Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit. Depart from evil and do good. Seek peace and pursue it.' As I examine my conscience and pray for discernment, I am convinced by experience that practicing the nonviolence of Mahandas K. Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is a wise and resourceful approach to conflict resolution. May God guide us through these difficult times and grant us the courage and resilience necessary to live, and vote, as responsible citizens of this constitutional republic. Thank you for your consideration. Jeff Mason Secular Franciscan Order (OFS) Rock Island