A Christian View 2022 - #18

Christianity cannot be divorced from our democracy. Judeo-Christian values are enshrined in the the fabric and foundation of our nation.

The question of concern is: Should Christians be defined and influenced by politics or should politics be defined and influenced by Christians?

Are we, as Christians , only to look helplessly on and allow world views to shape our belief system; or, are we to engage in the arena of our culture and shape it by Christian views and values.

In the gospels we read such phrases as:

“ you have heard it said but I say unto you”

Then came the collision of cultures.

Jesus then introduced a new transformative perspective based on integrity, integration and intentional spirituality.

The Christian view of 2022 is not a conservative think tank, a liberal study group or an NDP Committee - these are labels that divide into camps, constituencies, and campaigns.

Faith is more fundamental, more foundational, more of the forever and less of the fading fashions and empty philosophies of the world.

Is too utopian? Too ideal? Or, is it the ministry and mandate of the Christian?

Are we tired of the slogans and bumper stickers, yet? If so, don’t worry a new batch is brewing !

But what about 2022? Will there be anything uniquely Christian in the news cycles and political conventions and conversations?

Let me suggest three thoughts that are both Christian and current in the Canadian landscape.

1. Freedom still matters

“God keep our land glorious and free.

These words carry the breath of a nation and hope future generations

We are so “Americanized” that we shy away from being “too much like our neighbors and cousins to the South - but Canada has a claim on freedom too.

Listen to the second paragraph of the Canadian Charter:

2. Everyone has the following fundamental freedom:

(a) freedom of conscience and religion; (b) freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication; (c) freedom of peaceful assembly; and (d) freedom of association.”

And what is the foundation to Canadian Freedom

Listen to the first paragraph:

“Whereas Canada is founded upon principles that recognize the supremacy of God and the rule of law:”

3. Forgiveness still matter

Christian grace is sadly absent in the national dialogue. Numbered among the grace attributes is forgiveness. Without it’s integration into the Canadian culture how can we sustain any sense of historic, wholistic credibility. Without getting too controversial - it is my personal persuasion that I have inter-generational responsibility. If I have no accountability for the injury then I have no ability, no authenticity to forgive. I have the gift of grace to offer without the shame to embrace. King David demonstrated this to Mephibosheth.

( 2 Samuel 9)

4. Faith Still Matters

The Christian view of 2022 is that Canada does not exist in a godless vacuum.

Consider our Universities and Hospitals, our Non Governmental Organizations (NGO), our demographics - many rooted in Christian Faith.

If we were to erase the Christian footprint from the human landscape we would be socially and spiritually decimated and degraded.

Yes, Freedom, Forgiveness and Faith still matter. Our Dominion has it’s DNA in the simplistic and profound assertion that “ every human being being created in the image of God with destiny, dignity and design. ( my life statement)

Randy B. Leavitt

Pastor