‘All things are wearisome, more than one can say…’ A Biblical view on UK politics, perhaps?
Well, it could be. As could the bit that comes after it in Ecclesiastes: ‘What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.’ (Ecclesiastes 1:8;10)
Amidst the seemingly endless cycles of disagreement and discontent, the Brexit-ing and the debate, there is something strangely soothing in the lament. We’re not the first people to face any of this. We probably won’t be the last.
This election result won’t be an overnight resolution of the situation and the upheaval can be distressing. The change – or lack of change – can cause us to be anxious. In light of that, let’s reclaim two recently-overused, anxiety-inducing words – leave and remain:
Leave
‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.’ (John 14:27)
Be at peace. His voice is above the context of our political views or fears. He is constant.
‘Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.’ (Deuteronomy 31:6)
He goes with us. He never leaves us. His trustworthiness is unchanging.
Remain
‘And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.’
(1 Corinthians 13:13)
No matter what else happens, his love for us remains. Our hope is steadfast. In faith.
‘Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.’ (John 15:4)
In this we can be clear. If we hold on to him, he holds on to us. And we bear fruit.
Our constant aim
Whatever political storms may rage, there is one leader who is completely trustworthy. His ways are perfect and his truth is steadfast. We remain unwavering in our call to follow Jesus where the need is greatest. The crucial things are still the crucial things: empowering people to step out of poverty; responding in times of disaster and conflict; campaigning for justice in our world.
PLEASE PRAY
- Pray for each of our partners and programmes around the world – that people will continue to be empowered to build futures free from poverty. Pray that our new government will continue to prioritise aid funding.
- Lift up every person facing the aftermath of disaster or conflict – pray that we will be able to reach people in their time of need. Pray that our new government will continue to care about those around the world who face times of struggle.
- Pray for the awareness of individuals and organisations everywhere – that we will all play our part in protecting creation. Pray that our new government will take responsibility and be a powerful voice for positive change.
- Lift up all of those who now hold political power in our country – pray that they will love justice and speak truth.
