The Reflectionary

Delicate hawthorn blossom made white frothy mounds along the footpath. The overall appearance was stunning.

Spring is a wonderful life-affirming season. But the flowers are vulnerable to the high winds, late frosts, and occasional hailstorms. Such delicate beginnings- and such promise for the future.

I’m writing on the day when local council election results have been declared. Both major parties have suffered losses, and new councillors have been elected to serve.

Response in the media has been predictable. Every reporter seems to be using the same set of results to champion their preferred editorial stance. Amazing how the same bald figures support directly opposite conclusions!

A simple plea: beginnings are such delicate moments. Whatever our own political views can we do one thing? Pray for those in “authority” at both local and national levels of politics- and pray for those who put forward alternative views, and pray for those who hold the influential and powerful to account.

Those who profess faith in the Sovereign Lord have a calling to be good citizens and use freedom to respect others- and to work together for the common good.

Don’t give up praying. Be blessed, and be a blessing.

1 Peter 2:13-17 (NLT) For the Lord’s sake, respect all human authority—whether the king as head of state, or the officials he has appointed. For the king has sent them to punish those who do wrong and to honour those who do right. It is God’s will that your honourable lives should silence those ignorant people who make foolish accusations against you. For you are free, yet you are God’s slaves, so don’t use your freedom as an excuse to do evil. Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters. Fear God, and respect the king.