By Madison Sylvester
Catherine Amsler. (Catherine Amsler)
As the upcoming election edges closer, there’s lots of discussion about which side people are choosing when it comes to voting. Amid the controversy, there are thousands of people who abstain from the ballot altogether each election. Today, I spoke with a Jehovah’s Witness, Catherine Amsler, on why she, and so many others, withhold their votes.
Q: What religious reasons influence Jehovah’s Witnesses to remain politically neutral when it comes to elections?
A: As one of Jehovah’s witnesses, I consider myself to be a loyal subject under God’s government, not man’s. Jesus is my king and has a united following here on Earth. This being said, I do not choose to support one country over another. This helps us to have a united brotherhood all over Earth. We do not take up arms against one another or go to war. Jesus taught his disciples to be “no part of the world” and made it clear that they should not take sides in political issues.
Q: How does this stance affect you personally?
A: I believe God’s kingdom is the only lasting solution to all of mankind’s problems, and right now man is only ruling for a temporary period. This has helped me to love people because I don’t have to be worried about being divided over political issues.
Q: Is there any other information you believe is important to speak on and/or views you would like to share?
A: We are loyal to God’s kingdom which Jesus spoke of when he said; “This good news of the Kingdom will be preached in all the inhabited earth. … My kingdom is no part of this world” (Matthew 24:14, John 18:36). If you would like to look into more about Jehovah’s Witnesses, please visit the website “JW.ORG.” There is a lot of false information out there online, so this is truly the only reliable source! Thank you!
