Thank God for democracy

Today at PBC we are doubling up as a Polling Station for the general election. It’s a small picture of a big question: how should the Church and government relate? It’s also a small picture of our heart as a church; to love and serve our community and be a catalyst for positive social engagement.

Although, according to the Voter Power Index, each individual vote in Tunbridge Wells is not very ‘powerful’, compared to those around the world who have no opportunity to express their view or hold those in authority to accountability, our opportunity is a great privilege. ‘When we vote, we engage an ethical act and encourage ethics; we speak the truth to power. We remind our rulers that there is only one Ruler whose power is absolute; he unmasks principalities and powers; he shines light into the darkness. He is more than a philosopher king; he is a servant king.’ Anna Robbins, London School of Theology.

Today we have an opportunity to express our individual opinion on the shape that our society can take and the values by which we choose to organise ourselves as a nation. These are political concerns, but they are also Christian concerns.

As for me? I’ll be saying a special prayer for each of our local candidates, that they’ll know God’s peace today as they stand for public office. And for the person who wins I’ll be praying that he or she will remember that leadership, or public office, is a stewardship, it is temporary, and they are accountable. Where will I put my X? After long and careful consideration, I’ll be voting….[transmission interrupted]…