Pastor's Desk
January 22 , 2006
ON MONDAY, JANUARY 23rd Canadians will have an opportunity to go to the polls and elect the next government of Canada. Bruce Clemenger of the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada writes:
With the election days away, as citizens we understand that we have an opportunity to participate in the selection of our government leaders. As Christians we also acknowledge that governments are not simply the product of our will. Let us first confess the supremacy of Christ in all things. As the apostle Paul wrote: “For in him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions, or rulers or authorities – all things were created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” (Colossians 1:16-17) God alone is sovereign. He created governments for our good, and government officials are his ministers. This confession, however, does not absolve us of our responsibility as citizens. … I would ask you to encourage others to vote; it is a privileged that so many in our world are denied. Let us give thanks to God for the freedom we have in a democracy.
As we go to the polls let us let use our vote to support those candidates who promise to stand up for marriage, the protection of children, family, religious freedoms in Canada, respect for human life, as well as those who will properly address issues of poverty and homelessness and integrity in government. Take some time to get informed about the candidates and their views and then ask God for wisdom as you mark your ballot. Having done that, give yourself to prayer and ask God to have mercy on us as a nation and give us righteous men and women to govern our nation. And whatever the outcome we should constantly pray for those in positions of authority that they would govern wisely and righteously. As the apostle Paul wrote: “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone--for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” (1 Timothy 2:1-4)
My prayer is that we would be able to live and work together in an environment of peace and quiet where we would have the freedom to demonstrate and tell people the good news of Jesus Christ.
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From him the whole body,
joined and held together by every supporting ligament,
grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
(Ephesians 4:16)
This page was last updated on Friday, January 20, 2006