At the time of writing the results of the federal election were not known. That lack of information may make the following passage easier to read for some of you but I trust it is a sincere and complete commitment for all of us who call ourselves Christians and for all of us who want to be supportive of those who hold democratically elected office.
I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all Godliness and dignity. This is right and is acceptable in the sight of God our Savior. 1 timothy 2:1-3
The only way many of us will remember our country leaders in prayer (federal, provincial, civic, regional politicians and senior judges and civil servants, the health, fire, protection and armed services) is if our church committees list them and pray for them publicly. Lord Ashton (a Roman Catholic British politician) once said “Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely”. In a 1990’s book on American congressional aides, the author wrote “Power corrupts and absolute power is a blast.” As a Christian, I believe that absolute power belongs to an awesome, loving, just and merciful God. Any power held by civil is temporary and must be held accountable by those of us who desire to preserve a just and democratic society. So pray for those who lead us. Always stay abreast of what’s going on in our communities and land. Be informed. Stay informed. Challenge what concerns you and pray persistently.
The rest of this letter is a miscellany of news. I do this from time to time to keep you informed, to be accountable for my time on your behalf and to ask for you prayers. I need your prayers.
In January I have been involved in the administrative and staff organizational work of the Calgary office (working with John Prociuk). I have also worked with the Mustard Seed Calgary senior staff on transitions to a new board. (I am working on this with Sam Breakey, Herb Kroeker and Andy Trevoy, the acting chair). I have also spent excellent time with our youth coordinator Ryan Sato.
I am preaching on January 22 at 3 pm at the induction of Rob Fitterer at Emmanuel Victoria followed (by a red-eye I regret to say) by meetings in Ontario with area ministers and senior staff for Baptist works across Canada.
On January 30 I join the Alberta Area Minister’s retreat in Edmonton for three days which I am thoroughly looking forward to. I am also very pleased to be speaking at Asquith’s 100th anniversary service on February 11th. So many of our churches have deep roots in this country, thanks be to God.
I have been in discussions with those deeply concerned with Human Trafficking particularly victims of the sex trade. I have also been in discussions on how we might re-engage affinity groups in the Evangelism and Social justice and the Arts (all separate topics friends).
Carey Centre and Calgary have been excellent working bases. I am deeply thankful for the opportunity this work provides … thank you all, thank you Lord.
We’re now into the fourth week of the New Year. I thought this generic poem (which I love after prayer, much to my embarrassment, to the Lord) might challenge and amuse you.
Negotiation with a Higher Power
I will demonstrate
my immediate
obedience
providing you comply
with my demand
for a more satisfying
assignment.
Thomas John Carlisle, 20th century
Warmly
In Christ
Jeremy Bell