Furthermore, what comes first in peace? I haven't so far mentioned domestic social issues, which would not make an election pivotal if we had basic agreement on what makes a just or good society, or even on how to decide such questions. Now, we do not. As Supreme Court justices continue to grab power, we can either curse their dark robes or push for the appointment of candles rather than smudgepots. With several justices perhaps waiting until after the election to retire, the next president may have his judicial way for the next 30 years.

 Oh, I hate to describe our next vote as pivotal. A Republican win will not mean victory for biblical principle but only the opportunity to keep battling for the soul of the GOP -- and victory for compassionate conservatism will once again be elusive. Sadly, if the Democrats win, international and further judicial disaster is within our grasp.