Making your mark

Since writing my last editorial, we have a new government in Canada. A huge political shift has occurred in the space between my words. Stephen Harper succeeded Paul Martin to become the 22nd prime minister of Canada.

Many doubt the significance of this shift; they sense it will bring nothing more than an ongoing trail of shredded promises. Let’s face it, most of us don’t suffer from political amnesia. We remember how the GST was heralded as a temporary solution to a terrible deficit, so we snicker slightly when the government promises it will dip into our wallets at every cash register a mere six percent. But, never mind the cynicism. A change has occurred.

Religious commentary and debate were essentially silenced during Martin and Harper’s political campaigns this winter. The fact that Stephen Harper is an evangelical Christian was largely downplayed. Canadians don’t have a stomach for religion interfering with politics. But does this mean Christians should be uninvolved or blissfully ignorant of the political climate in our country?

The question is this: should we enter the democratic arena and cast a vote, or simply hide in our prayer closets petitioning God on behalf of our national leaders? I think both are essential acts. I always feel a bit tearful when I participate in the electoral process. I vividly remember the first time I cast my vote. I remember the awesome power I felt entering the tiny cardboard booth at my local elementary school, pencil in hand, ready to place a bold mark on the ballot. I thought of how, had I been born 100 years earlier, my opinion would never be solicited or heard. What a privilege! This was an awesome rite of passage. I sensed I was part of something much larger than my small suburban world.

There’s something very meaningful about making a mark in this world – it’s both a privilege and a responsibility.

But politics and government don’t end in the House of Commons. We are also part of a political entity called the Canadian Conference of Mennonite Brethren churches. Gathering 2006 is quickly approaching. With it comes an invitation to make a mark on the history of our denomination and cast a vote on some important resolutions.

Some folks are reticent to get involved in this form of politicking. Perhaps we’re a bit jaded. Perhaps we feel the church and politics shouldn’t mix. Perhaps we’re afraid of the cost. But, I’ve always been taught to consider the cost and invest nonetheless.

This is a plea to get involved in conference politics.

No, the church is not the same type of political animal as the Canadian government. The church is unique because the Holy Spirit dwells among us. There is something more at work than mere resolutions, political platforms and lobbies. However, for all practical purposes, we still use a system of government that relies on the voices of each member and the participation of delegates to discern the Spirit’s voice among us.

Each vote counts and participation is essential. We have a responsibility to one another. We also have the privilege (and legal obligation) of being able to meet freely in convention without fear of persecution. Let’s exercise that privilege.

This is also a plea to participate in a uniquely Christian way: with a spirit of love, integrity and hope. Canadian politics (as opposed to American politics, for example) are characterized by a general malaise and pessimism. I think the same is often true of our conference politics.

This year, can we enter with a different spirit?

Can we participate in the conversation without losing sight of the fact that the Lord of the universe is present among us, guiding the dialogue and longing to fill us with a sense of hope, awe and wonder for the future he has in store?

This means addressing one another with respect and even favour. This means walking away from conventions with a “yes!” on our lips and in our hearts, because God moved among us and led us in a particular direction, even if we had initially hoped for a different outcome. This also means actively participating in the conversation, even though we may feel the same arguments have been volleyed back and forth for decades.

Participating as Christians means entering the process with a fresh vision each time we gather.

Yes, this is a plea to attend Gathering 2006. It’s a plea to vote on conference matters. It’s a plea to get involved in your local church. Let your voice be heard. Make your mark.