Here are some of the key things that I think should inform the vote of every Christian. I realize that various people who follow Jesus might use these same criteria to vote for either leading candidate for the next U.S. President. That's a good thing - a decision between you and God, but in context with thoughtful dialog with people who agree with you and people who disagree with you.

Without preaching or steering your vote (and feel free to agree or disagree or add whatever I've missed in the comments) here are some of the top criteria, in my opinion...

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We need to be in prayer for thousands of people who are being displaced in Congo, the recent rebel advances there, and the impact on neighboring Rwanda, including many thousands of Congolese who are fleeing into Rwanda.

Congo city panics as rebels near (BBC News)
How Congo's heaven became hell (BBC News)

Explore the sidebar links for more context and history.

This is yet another chance for the God's people to do the right thing on a daily basis. And African nations and the international community need to play an appropriate role at the appropriate times. Not an after-the-fact apology after things have gone way too far; nor another "never again" promise; but also not a unilateral outsider strong-arming either.

We need firm, collaborative voice and power from the world community, including leading African nations, to call an end to the violence and disruption of people's lives in the troubled nation of Congo.

We need people and leaders who refuse to stand by and wait for some good outcome that may not be coming.

We need peace that passes all understanding.