Qualifications for Public Service

When my son was in high school, his guidance counselor told me that he ought to run for public office. He could get elected to anything.

You have to know my son. He is of average height or just a hair shorter. At that time he had blond hair, eyes as blue as an Irish lake, and a grin that would not quit. He "cleaned up good", was personable, and carried an air of optimism with him. All wonderful qualifications for a candidate for any political office.

But when I queried the counselor about his fitness to serve, he countered, "It takes a whole different set of qualifications to do the job."

I think probably we've forgotten that what we're seeking in a chief executive is a candidate who can fill the requirements of the office. The presidency of the United States is a tough act.

You need someone who

1. has the courage of his convictions
2. is able to see the big picture
3. and can coordinate the execution of government in all its facets.

Conversely, the requirements for a political candidate seem to be

1. great rhetoric
2. charismatic personality
3. and the ability to stir people to action.

Personally, I'd like to see our country think beyond the hype and hyperbole in this election year. We need to exercise sober judgment when we cast our ballots in November. And it wouldn't hurt to make our decision the object of prayer as well.