Hamas' victory in the Palestinian parliamentary election demonstrates the unpredictability of democracy. Free and unfettered elections can end with results not to one's liking. While I'm dismayed with the results, I'm not surprised either. Fatah and the PLO haven't delivered order, peace, or prosperity for the Palestinians. So, is it surprising that many Palestinians decided to give the opposition a chance to do better?

The Middle East is a volatile place, with democracy still in its infancy. Few of America's allies in the region are true democracies. When Egypt yielded to American pressure and allowed limited elections, they ended up with results that presaged Hamas' victory. Hamas' Egyptian counterpart, the Muslim Brotherhood, might have won it all, if they'd been completely open. If we want free elections in the region, then we must accept the possibility that religious and extremist parties will often prevail.

Since much of Palestinian society is secular, it isn't likely that Hamas won in such overwhelming fashion because of its theocratic agenda or because of its stance toward Israel. In spite of a deep seated anger toward Israel among many Palestinians, it would seem that Hamas won because the reigning party was corrupt, inefficient, and ineffective. Now Hamas must do what Fatah couldn't, deliver freedom, peace and prosperity.

I know the Israelis are worried, and they have reason to worry. Hamas' rhetoric and past acts of violence don't bode well for the future. Still, I remain optimistic, even though the dream may seem even more impossible today than it did two weeks ago. As of yet, Hamas hasn't renounced its charter, but the need to provide for their people could moderate their stance. Only time will tell if they will do this.

Hamas faces two challenges; first they must deal with Israel and the outside world, something that will prove exceedingly difficult for them. They must also show that they can govern by taking care of the Palestinians basic needs - order, jobs, homes, water, and food. Not long ago they rejected the democratic process, now they find themselves in charge. Their future as a political party depends on the choices they make.

I have my worries. Will Hamas' extremist Islamic orientation preclude giving freedom to those of different views? Because there is a small but significant Christian presence in Palestine, I'm concerned for their welfare. Then there is the matter of Israel. But, even as the PLO changed course and recognized Israel, so might Hamas. It will be more difficult because of Hamas' theological claims about this land, but it remains possible. Even as Hamas faces the problem of bringing order to its society, it must deal with the perceptions and actions of the outside world. Israel, its Islamic neighbors, Europe, and the United States will all play a role, especially regarding the Palestinian finances. Any one of these parties could precipitate conflict. My prayer is that all parties, including and especially Hamas and Israel, will consider carefully the next steps.

These are truly unsettled times. There are a whole host of reasons why things could get worse before they get better. Many of those reasons have religious undertones. Democracy is risky in any context, but this is especially true in this corner of the world. Therefore, the future remains uncertain and even dangerous.

In the coming months we will watch to see what happens among the Palestinians. Hamas still seems to be taking stock of its unexpected vault to power. Its message is conflicted, but so far its actions have been peaceful. With Ariel Sharon incapacitated and the Israeli's preparing for their own elections, together with concerns about Iran and the unsettled and violent situation in Iraq, it wouldn't take much to ignite a war.

As for me, I will continue to pray and I will continue to dream the impossible dream that one day peace will come to this land called holy. But dreaming is not enough. We must take concrete steps down the pathway of peace. This path can be rocky and dangerous, but there is no other road. As I dream, I will remember Jesus' admonition to love our enemies. I will also remember Paul's admonition to temper my freedoms with love of neighbor. May the love that bridges every chasm prevail!

Dr. Bob Cornwall is pastor of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of Lompoc (lompocdisciples.org). You may contact him at lompocdisciples@impulse.net or First Christian Church, P.O. Box 1056, Lompoc, CA 93438.

February 5, 2006