Dear Friends,
As we entered lock down just a week ago, it was with something approaching light relief that we were able to follow the fall-out from the Presidential Election in the United States. To everyone except the outgoing President and his political entourage it is accepted that Joe Biden has been elected to serve as their 46th President – (although I hope nothing happens to overturn the result and make us all look foolish. But it is America we are talking about, so anything is possible, just). More seriously, as time passes, the expectation as to what a Biden presidency might achieve continues to be ratcheted up. It will be very tempting for him to be forced into a situation in which he finds himself ‘over promising’ only to be criticised for ‘under delivering’……Whenever an election is held, we do well to be reminded of the words of the Psalmist, ‘…Put no trust in Princes or in any mortal, for they have no power to save. When they breathe their last breath, they return to the dust, and on that day their plans come to nothing…’ (Psalm 146, verses 3 – 4). The pressure cooker environment that is the world of politics conspires to drain the energy – physical, intellectual, emotional – of even the seemingly most prepared, most suited candidate for High Office. We have to remember that they are made of the same stuff that we are made of…Hence Paul’s injunction to Timothy, ‘…I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — 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 Saviour…’ (1 Timothy 2, verses 1 – 3). It doesn’t matter whether we voted for them or not, it would be unchristian of us to want them to fail. Why? Because as Paul says when writing to the Romans, ‘…Every person must submit to the authorities in power, for all authority comes from God, and the existing authorities are instituted by Him…’ (Romans 13, 1). There will be the exception that proves that rule, but however grudging we might be about it, in the end we get the politicians we deserve…
…The days are getting shorter; the darkness is deepening. But this week, a light has begun to shine; the prospect of a vaccine that can be used to combat Covid-19 becoming available sooner than we might have thought. But for now, we still have to remain vigilant, keeping to the rules – obeying the Government – and it isn’t that easy for everyone. But we do so now, with a sense of real and hope-filled anticipation that the end is in sight. So, we have to be patient for a while longer yet, but maybe, just maybe for not too long…
…All being well, you will be reading this on Wednesday 11th November. Armistice Day. Last Sunday we held a service of Remembrance, but today, wherever you are at 11am, that would be a good time to pause, to be quiet, to say thank you…