The Commonwealth of Neighborly Love

Pennsylvania, my home state, is referred to as a commonwealth, not a state. There is no practical difference between a commonwealth and a state in the United States. The term "commonwealth" historically referred to an organized political community. This choice reflects Pennsylvania's colonial history and the desire to emphasize governance by the people, not the British monarchy, after the Revolutionary War.

In 1787, the year The Constitution of the United States of America was ratified, Pennsylvania was given the nickname “The Keystone State,” due to its crucial role in forming America and its centrality, figuratively and geographically, to the thirteen colonies. A keystone refers to the central stone at the summit of an arch, locking the whole together, which serves as a metaphor for Pennsylvania’s importance to this country.?

Pennsylvania's history and heritage are deeply intertwined with religious significance. From William Penn's visionary concept of a Holy Experiment to the initial laws proposed by the General Assembly, and the first section of the inaugural Constitution, the Charter of Privileges, which enshrined the freedom of conscience, our founders built their way of life on religious convictions.

In 1751, to mark the 50th Anniversary of the Charter of Privileges, the Speaker of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives commissioned a bell inscribed with a Bible verse. This bell, later known as the Liberty Bell, became a significant symbol during the abolitionist movement, an organized effort to end the practice of slavery in the United States, and now stands as a powerful emblem of American liberty. The inscription reads, "Proclaim liberty throughout all the land and unto all the inhabitants thereof," Leviticus 25:10.

I am proud of my home state, and its historical significance to America. Its State Capitol Building is lavished with Biblical quotations and religious references on its walls and ceilings. One Bible verse that does not appear in the building, but is extremely relevant to the current state of American culture is Leviticus 19:18, “‘Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the Lord."

America feels fragile, facing an existential threat as we know it today. The nation appears polarized, with small groups on the extremes, driven by improper motives, stirring the pot. Much of what they say is hearsay, not truth. The consequences are evident, with a lack of trust among adults seeping into the younger generation.

We need to foster social and political unity. A trustworthy leader is essential—someone who can build that unity and is conspicuously willing to relinquish power. This leader's greatest act of sacrificial obedience should be to cultivate genuine neighborly love from the heart, driven solely by this motive. They must love their neighbors as themselves.

Their main priority shall be to lead by following God's Spirit, even if it means navigating uncomfortable conversations. In my experience, when these discussions are rooted in love, they become healthy and constructive. Wisdom lies in balancing encouragement with loving confrontation, and good leadership is about knowing when and how to do both.

I believe leadership is rooted in love. Wisdom shines through in relationships. A servant leader's role is to draw out wisdom from everyone by asking insightful questions. Knowing the right questions to ask allows you to learn from anyone.

Tuesday, November 5, 2024, is Election Day, and once again, America's future hinges on The Keystone State, which I proudly call The Commonwealth of Neighborly Love. Over the past 30 years, I've learned that true learning happens when I'm listening, not talking. Servant leaders excel by asking insightful questions, listening intently, and genuinely loving their neighbors. They embrace transparency, believing that "the truth shall set you free" (John 8:32). These leaders deeply love this country, its people, and its founding principles, and they are committed to making America great again.

There is a clear choice for the type of leader America needs in 2025 and beyond. I pray Pennsylvania continues to serve as the keystone of America’s future as "one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all," and delivers that person to the White House.