Civil Responsibilities

Yesterday we were notified that Canada will be having a federal election on April 28th, which is just over a month away. Some are saying that this is probably the most important election in Canada's 158-year history.  A statement that, with all that’s going on in the world right now, isn’t much of a stretch to believe.

As your Pastor, I am not going to use this platform to tell you how to vote, but I will use it to encourage you TO vote. So many times I hear people complaining about the way our society is going. They will discuss inflation, a loss of our civil rights, a breakdown of the family, a broken public educational system, and on and on and on. All of this is true and needs to be addressed, but the question is, what part will you have in fixing it?

Unlike many nations where citizens have few rights, we in Canada are still fortunate enough to have the right to vote for our political leaders.  And while some argue that the system is rigged and the outcome already decided, I believe this can only be true if we fail to do our part.

King Solomon wrote in Proverbs 29:2, "When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan."

In Solomon's time, monarchies were the norm, and democracy was rare. Today, in Canada, we live in a democracy which gives each citizen the right to vote for what party leads our nation - a right that many throughout history could only have dreamed of. Yet sadly we find in the last federal election, only 62 percent of eligible voters actually cast their ballots, meaning over a third chose not to vote.

To me, this is concerning, especially when we consider how non-participation impacts the future of our nation. There is few excuses for not voting. Whether due to a busy schedule, confusion about the process, or a belief that it doesn’t matter, each of us must understand how valuable each individual vote really is.

As citizens of Canada, it’s crucial that we recognize the power and responsibility we have in shaping the direction of our nation. Too often, people disengage from the process, believing their individual vote won’t make a difference. But the reality is that every vote counts, and when we fail to exercise this right, we give away our ability to influence the future of our country. We must understand that voting isn’t just a right, it is a powerful tool for change. By choosing to cast our ballots, we are ensuring that the leaders who represent us are held accountable to the values we hold dear.

As well as this, I would encourage each of us to help those around us to become informed about the candidates and their platforms.   It is so easy to get lost in the noise of political debates and social media, so taking the time and helping others to research the policies, stances, and integrity of the candidates can make a world of difference.

Encourage your family, friends, and neighbors to learn what each candidate stands for. Help them see the importance of making an informed decision. The decisions we make on election day will shape the future for generations to come, and it’s vital that we do everything in our power to make sure those choices reflect our collective values.

Also, we must remember that voting is a community effort. Not everyone has access to transportation or the ability to physically make it to the voting booth. As we prepare for this election, let us consider how we can help those who may need assistance. Offer a ride to those without means of transportation, especially the elderly, the disabled, or those who live in rural areas. Volunteering your time or even just making sure a neighbor is aware of the upcoming election date could be the difference between someone voting and not voting. As we serve others in this way, we fulfill our duty as both citizens and as people who care deeply about the direction of our nation. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, not just by casting our own votes, but by helping others exercise their right as well. Together, we can create the change we wish to see in the world.

Does God want to heal our land, as we read in 2 Chronicles 7:14? If the answer is yes, then let’s follow the guidance He’s given us as believers: “Humble ourselves, pray, seek His face for wisdom, and turn from our wicked ways.” And as Canadians, let’s go a step further—let’s fulfill our civic duty and vote!

Have a wonderful week and we will See you Sunday!