COMPASS Refugee Centre congratulates all who were elected to represent their communities in our Federal government. We wish the best to all those who were not re-elected as they move on to new endeavours.
There are many who question the value of the Federal Election – $600 million dollars wasted. Maybe. Maybe not.
600 million – that’s roughly $15 per person in Canada. You can spend more than that when you go out to a restaurant so to say it could have … should have … been spent elsewhere is a moot point.
So, what did we get for our money besides a few new members of parliament?
Now we know without doubt that we value familiarity over the unknown, and perception over untested reality, especially when in the midst of challenging times. That is not always a bad thing. Sometimes we just need to know what we are grabbing onto.
We can see the power of a split vote and barrier of internal division.
We can see that ideas do not translate into confidence you can make a difference; you still need a plan that everyone can help make happen and that does not rely on attacking one segment of society.
We found out that our voice does matter, and power cannot be assumed. There was a hope for a majority. The people said no. More importantly, God said no (Acts 17:25-27).
So, the election is only a waste if we don’t take what we have been shown, and use it to pray with clarity and confidence, asking God to align our values with his kingdom ethics, and to change our hearts so that NO ONE is targeted, NO ONE is left behind, NO ONE is excluded or devalued and that what we have been given – our freedom, resources, and relationships – is held with care, humility, generosity, and good stewardship.
This is not about a political or economic framework. This is about a kingdom ethic that does not divide, does not shame, does not use and exploit, and does not turn a deaf ear or a blind eye to someone who has come across our pathway with a need, whether from across the street or from across the world, and whether by invitation or by unexpected banging on our doors.
We are not here to prove anything but to give witness to a better way given by the only One who knows how to do it all best. We need revived hearts and renewed vision. We now have a very clear baseline from which to seek these things.
In my house, with two people, our voting cost $30. I will match that today to make a difference in someone’s life. Imagine what would happen if everyone who could do this, did, and then also did it for someone who couldn’t. So, you know what? I have a neighbour who can barely make ends meet. He lives alone. I will add his $15 to my $30. It’s not a lot but is also isn’t nothing. It will make a difference to the person God puts before me today to help.