On May 6th, 1957, John F. Kennedy was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Biography – “Profiles in Courage.” He later went on to become the president of the United States. His literary award gave credence to the man who would one day sit in the oval office of the White House. Looking at each of the presidents in the above photo, you would expect great things from the man who leads a nation. Unfortunately, we are all human – have a sinful nature – make mistakes. We expect so much more of our leaders.

We want them to be the epitome of strength, wisdom and honor. We place them at a higher standard, because they will represent us to the world. They in fact become “our” voice as they sit in that office. Presidents are not perfect, but our expectations for the one to fill that position far exceed what we receive in the end. Our vote might be considered one of the last freedoms we possess as Americans. I’m concerned that our vote is being lost in the shuffle of politics as usual. By the time the candidates are determined, we are left with imperfect choices for that esteemed job.

We also expect the same from our teachers, our parents, our pastors, priests and church leaders. Unfortunately, everyone has been touched by some ugly secret in their past, present or future. The way our country is going and has been from the first day of its conception, leaves a lot to be desired. It’s nothing new. In King Solomon’s day, things were much like they are today. He even declared that there was nothing new under the sun. We have lost respect for those in leadership positions, yet we continue to elect the imperfect, forgetting that we are also marred by sin.

In this election year, we need to be mindful of our own identity. How do we stack up when it comes to our ultimate leader, God? Do we keep His commandments? Do we follow them to a tee? Are we living perfect lives in His sight? Are we obedient to His precepts? Are we without sin? Jesus made a good example of the woman who was about to be stoned because she was found in the sin of adultery. He told the crowd that whoever was without sin should cast the first stone. Of course everyone left, because they couldn’t admit such a truth.

Because of Jesus, we have been made perfect because of His sacrifice. Therefore, we can stand confidently before God, knowing that we have been forgiven. Look at the cost of that forgiveness and learn to appreciate what has been freely given to us. Those in authority are to be looked up to, but we must also realize that they we’re all the same when it comes to our true identity.

Would you be able to claim the perfection we require of our leaders?