What could happen if the Church in BC actively prayed through the civic election campaign? I believe that God would use this election to fulfill His purposes for our communities and school boards if we just asked Him too.
We want to find out, so we're launching a prayer initiative for the Civic Election in BC. Our goal is to build a network of people who will take 5 minutes a day to pray with us that God would use this election to accomplish His plans and purposes for the 189 municipalities in our province.
Most of you are busy people, so we want to make this as easy for you as possible. We've put together a 33 day email campaign that will start on October 15. Each email will contain a daily prayer focus, a scripture verse and a written prayer. It's designed to take less than 5 minutes a day. We believe that by mobilizing the church to pray through this campaign, we can shape the outcome on our knees. Here's the key, this is an opt-in list. You'll only receive the emails if you sign up. We won't use this list for anything other than this campaign and the provincial election campaign in the spring.
To join our list, go to www.praybc.com and click on register.
Be a part of the miracle!
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Thursday, October 09, 2008
How To Vote In The Federal Election - 5
I think it's very interesting that what began as perhaps the dullest election campaign on record has become perhaps one of our most important elections in light of the current financial crisis. It's been interesting to watch the polls slip, slide and climb for the various parties and I'm guessing that these must be the most stressful days of the entire campaign for leaders and candidates in general.
I was asked earlier today about how I was going to vote. I'm officially non-partisan and while I do exercise my right to vote, I follow the example of my father who always says 'it's a secret ballot and I'm going to keep the secret.' I'm still undecided. I'm hoping someone will say something that will resonate with me before election day. I know what I ENVISION for our nation and I know what VALUES I'm looking for in the lives of those who serve us politically. I also know that sometimes there's a difference between what I want and what's available.
I also wrestle with the whole idea of voting for my local candidate who is actually going to serve my needs and voting for the leader even though most people will never interact with them. I'm leaning towards voting for the local candidate who is most like a servant. On the one hand I want to know their vision, plans and platform, but I also remember that it's my money and the money of my kids that they are promising to spend so I'm not quickly sold on the promises of tax cuts. Historically, people who are servants find ways to serve and they don't do it just before elections. It's a pattern in their lives.
I want a servant to represent my interests in Ottawa not just someone who is looking for a job with some great perks. I hope you do to!
I was asked earlier today about how I was going to vote. I'm officially non-partisan and while I do exercise my right to vote, I follow the example of my father who always says 'it's a secret ballot and I'm going to keep the secret.' I'm still undecided. I'm hoping someone will say something that will resonate with me before election day. I know what I ENVISION for our nation and I know what VALUES I'm looking for in the lives of those who serve us politically. I also know that sometimes there's a difference between what I want and what's available.
I also wrestle with the whole idea of voting for my local candidate who is actually going to serve my needs and voting for the leader even though most people will never interact with them. I'm leaning towards voting for the local candidate who is most like a servant. On the one hand I want to know their vision, plans and platform, but I also remember that it's my money and the money of my kids that they are promising to spend so I'm not quickly sold on the promises of tax cuts. Historically, people who are servants find ways to serve and they don't do it just before elections. It's a pattern in their lives.
I want a servant to represent my interests in Ottawa not just someone who is looking for a job with some great perks. I hope you do to!
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
How To Vote In The Federal Election - Part 4
I just got back from our local all candidates forum. It was an interesting evening with some excellent questions. As I listened I came away with the distinct impression that the main candidates all had some good ideas. I also came away with the distinct awareness that there are no easy answers to the challenges that exist in our nation. With the recent meltdown on Wall Street it's just a matter of time until America's financial woes begin to affect our economic health in Canada.
The bottom line is that those who will win this election will need a measure of wisdom beyond themselves. At the end of the day, I want people of wisdom working on Parlaiment Hill on my behalf and I think you do to. I want people who understand the economic implications of tax cuts, tax increases, I want people who are able to navigate changes to social policy and also have a sense of how to address environmental issues. What I really want is someone who has the humility to recognize that there is a SOURCE of WISDOM outside of themselves and will have the courage to seek it out.
Every morning that Parlaiment is in session, the day begins with prayers. My hope is that the primary request of the person I vote for is 'God grant us your wisdom as we lead this great nation.'
Proverbs tell us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. My prayer is that every candidate will seek the wisdom that only God can give and that as they find it, they will apply it to the challenges in our nation.
The bottom line is that those who will win this election will need a measure of wisdom beyond themselves. At the end of the day, I want people of wisdom working on Parlaiment Hill on my behalf and I think you do to. I want people who understand the economic implications of tax cuts, tax increases, I want people who are able to navigate changes to social policy and also have a sense of how to address environmental issues. What I really want is someone who has the humility to recognize that there is a SOURCE of WISDOM outside of themselves and will have the courage to seek it out.
Every morning that Parlaiment is in session, the day begins with prayers. My hope is that the primary request of the person I vote for is 'God grant us your wisdom as we lead this great nation.'
Proverbs tell us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. My prayer is that every candidate will seek the wisdom that only God can give and that as they find it, they will apply it to the challenges in our nation.
Sarah Palin a Disgrace to Women - Bridget Bardot...
I just read an article on Canada.com where Bridget Bardot calls Sarah Palin a disgrace to women. Here's part of the article for your viewing before I make my comments.
PARIS - French film icon turned activist Brigitte Bardot took a swipe at Sarah Palin on Tuesday, saying the U.S. vice-presidential candidate was a disgrace to women.
"I hope you lose these elections because that would be a victory for the world," Bardot wrote in an open letter to Republican John McCain's running mate in the November vote.
"By denying the responsibility of man in global warming, by advocating gun rights and making statements that are disconcertingly stupid, you are a disgrace to women and you alone represent a terrible threat, a true environmental catastrophe," wrote Bardot.
Let me get this right... A FRENCH actress is criticizing an AMERICAN politician. She can't even vote in the election because she's not an American citizen but feels well within her right to attack another woman simply because she disagrees with her politics. If the shoe was on the other foot, the media would be crying foul because a white, middle class American 'hockey mom' was berating a foreign national. Her actual comments don't actually rate discussion because they are rude and completely inappropriate.
I'm not American, but this really bugs me. I think what bugs me more is the constant skewering of anything that appears conservative or on the 'right' by the media in general. It seems to me that the idea of an objective presentation of issues, ideas and ideology has been lost by this relatively small group of people who have access to ink, websites, the airwaves and pod casts. The idea of the Hollywood elite declaring who is best to lead the country is almost laughable.
That being said, I do want to applaud Rex Murphy from CBC Radio. A few weeks ago he was hosting his weekly 'Cross Canada Checkup' call in show and took a call from a woman who was warning about the dangers of right wing fundamentalism in our country. He took issue with her statement and noted that there is an equally dangerous 'left wing fundamentalism' running rampant in our country that should be checked as well. I think it's the first time I've ever heard it said by anyone. Way to go Rex! Any thoughts on Sarah Palin?
PARIS - French film icon turned activist Brigitte Bardot took a swipe at Sarah Palin on Tuesday, saying the U.S. vice-presidential candidate was a disgrace to women.
"I hope you lose these elections because that would be a victory for the world," Bardot wrote in an open letter to Republican John McCain's running mate in the November vote.
"By denying the responsibility of man in global warming, by advocating gun rights and making statements that are disconcertingly stupid, you are a disgrace to women and you alone represent a terrible threat, a true environmental catastrophe," wrote Bardot.
Let me get this right... A FRENCH actress is criticizing an AMERICAN politician. She can't even vote in the election because she's not an American citizen but feels well within her right to attack another woman simply because she disagrees with her politics. If the shoe was on the other foot, the media would be crying foul because a white, middle class American 'hockey mom' was berating a foreign national. Her actual comments don't actually rate discussion because they are rude and completely inappropriate.
I'm not American, but this really bugs me. I think what bugs me more is the constant skewering of anything that appears conservative or on the 'right' by the media in general. It seems to me that the idea of an objective presentation of issues, ideas and ideology has been lost by this relatively small group of people who have access to ink, websites, the airwaves and pod casts. The idea of the Hollywood elite declaring who is best to lead the country is almost laughable.
That being said, I do want to applaud Rex Murphy from CBC Radio. A few weeks ago he was hosting his weekly 'Cross Canada Checkup' call in show and took a call from a woman who was warning about the dangers of right wing fundamentalism in our country. He took issue with her statement and noted that there is an equally dangerous 'left wing fundamentalism' running rampant in our country that should be checked as well. I think it's the first time I've ever heard it said by anyone. Way to go Rex! Any thoughts on Sarah Palin?
How To Vote In The Federal Election - Part 3
As I spend time with politicians there’s at least one thing that always stands out to me. These are people of courage. They willingly put themselves, their ideas and their policies on the line every day. They are criticized, mocked, despised, scorned and rarely applauded. I’ve been a pastor for over 25 years and my worst days as a pastor are pretty tame compared to what elected officials endure. This is not a career for the faint of heart or those whose feelings are easily hurt. Political life is a popularity contest at election time, the rest of the time it’s more like a shark tank where only the strong survive.
In my mind, anyone who is willing to sign candidate papers and be willing to have their name printed on a ballot has already shown a measure of courage. There’s only one winner in every race and so just willing to say yes means you are willing to risk the chance that you have a 1 in 4 chance of actually winning. In light of a 4 or 5 year tenure in office, the initial step of courage pales in comparison to the journey before the candidate.
Finding a candidate with courage is harder than you might think. It’s not likely that you’ll see displays of courage at all candidates’ forums. It’s more likely that you’ll see it in the voting patterns of incumbents or candidates with previous political experience. You might want to ask candidates if they’ve ever voted against party lines and/or public pressure. The candidate will most likely tell you that they always want to listen to their constituents (that’s a good thing...) but the reality is that political leaders are required to make decisions based on the information in front of them and not simply on a sampling of the polls. There’s a difference between being a maverick and a person of courage. I don’t think that our nation needs political loose cannons in positions of power and influence. At the same time, I don’t think we need rows of ‘yes’ men and women who base their decision on the winds of public opinion. We need leaders who have the wisdom to act with courage in spite of public opinion and pressure.
I’ve had the privilege of meeting men and women like that. They have voted against party pressure and public opinion knowing that it may cost them everything. What’s interesting is that they survived what appeared to be a no-win scenario and have been re-elected, in some cases promoted but almost always respected because of their courage.
God sent an angel to Joshua when he commissioned him to give leadership to Israel and told him to Be strong and very courageous. Joshua needed it as he led the people across the Jordan, around Jericho and into the conquest of the Promised Land. He needed it and so do our leaders today!
In my mind, anyone who is willing to sign candidate papers and be willing to have their name printed on a ballot has already shown a measure of courage. There’s only one winner in every race and so just willing to say yes means you are willing to risk the chance that you have a 1 in 4 chance of actually winning. In light of a 4 or 5 year tenure in office, the initial step of courage pales in comparison to the journey before the candidate.
Finding a candidate with courage is harder than you might think. It’s not likely that you’ll see displays of courage at all candidates’ forums. It’s more likely that you’ll see it in the voting patterns of incumbents or candidates with previous political experience. You might want to ask candidates if they’ve ever voted against party lines and/or public pressure. The candidate will most likely tell you that they always want to listen to their constituents (that’s a good thing...) but the reality is that political leaders are required to make decisions based on the information in front of them and not simply on a sampling of the polls. There’s a difference between being a maverick and a person of courage. I don’t think that our nation needs political loose cannons in positions of power and influence. At the same time, I don’t think we need rows of ‘yes’ men and women who base their decision on the winds of public opinion. We need leaders who have the wisdom to act with courage in spite of public opinion and pressure.
I’ve had the privilege of meeting men and women like that. They have voted against party pressure and public opinion knowing that it may cost them everything. What’s interesting is that they survived what appeared to be a no-win scenario and have been re-elected, in some cases promoted but almost always respected because of their courage.
God sent an angel to Joshua when he commissioned him to give leadership to Israel and told him to Be strong and very courageous. Joshua needed it as he led the people across the Jordan, around Jericho and into the conquest of the Promised Land. He needed it and so do our leaders today!
Sunday, October 05, 2008
How To Vote In The Federal Election - Part 2
Someone said that those who fail to learn from history are destined to repeat it. I think that’s especially true as we choose who we will vote for. While I’m a great believer in a fresh start and in what Jack Layton likes to refer to as ‘Damascus Road’ experiences, barring a genuine transformational moment, it’s pretty safe to say that our past decisions and practices are a fairly accurate indicator of how we will conduct themselves in the future.
As I’m getting ready to cast my ballot on Oct 14, one of the questions I’m asking myself is what are the convictions of those who are running for office? To be able to understand the convictions of the candidate or leader you really have to learn to see beyond the chest thumping and podium pounding and seek to discover the convictions of the individual. What are the things that they are absolutely convinced are right and true? I don’t think that you can really find that out by asking the standard questions. Generally speaking, candidates are provided with talking points for all candidate forums and doorstep conversations by their respective parties so you aren’t likely to discover their convictions there.
The real answers are more likely found in asking questions about the candidate’s past actions and activities. Questions about previous involvement with community groups, associations, activities, etc will help you discover something of their history. I think a simple ‘why did you get involved there?’ follow up question will give you a much better grasp on their convictions and will help you see if their campaign rhetoric really aligns with who they are as a person. I’d suggest that if their party platform doesn’t align with their personal background, you might not be speaking with a person who is true to their convictions.
I admire politicians who are willing to take a stand sometimes at the risk of their careers, opportunities and the chance of re-election because of their convictions. I may not always agree with their decisions or actions but at least I know that they are true to who they are, where they have been and what they believe. They’ve chosen to stand and I admire that!
Friday, October 03, 2008
How To Vote In The Federal Election - Part 1
I was interviewed by a reporter last week who asked my thoughts on how Christians should vote in the upcoming federal election. I think it's a great question and one that I'm glad he asked. The financial crisis in the USA combined with their election in November means that our election is even more important than usual.
There are several characteristics that I think need to be considered before casting our ballot. The first is the integrity of the candidate. Integrity speaks of wholeness and internal strength. It's actually an construction term that describes the ability of the structure to withstand the pressure it will be exposed to.
If I've learned anything in the last year, it's that politicians live with incredible pressure and demands. There are certainly the political expectations that come along with the job, but there are also demands that come from family, constituents, schedules and their leaders and colleagues. Politics is a challenging and difficult environment and succeeding requires an extra measure of integrity.
The challenge with integrity is that you can't measure it during the election campaign. You might hear a lot about it, but integrity can only be measured through an examination of the candidates track record over time. Here are some questions you may want to consider asking as you prepare to vote? If you don't know, ask someone who does, or better yet, ask the candidate themselves? You might be surprised at their response.
1. How have they conducted themselves?
2. Have they demonstrated stability and strength over the long haul?
3. How have they handled difficult situations in the past?
4. When they have made mistakes, how have they responded?
5. Has adversity caused them to crumble or to be renewed?
6. What lessons have they learned through hardship and how does that understanding affect their world view?
Next time, we'll talk about wisdom.
There are several characteristics that I think need to be considered before casting our ballot. The first is the integrity of the candidate. Integrity speaks of wholeness and internal strength. It's actually an construction term that describes the ability of the structure to withstand the pressure it will be exposed to.
If I've learned anything in the last year, it's that politicians live with incredible pressure and demands. There are certainly the political expectations that come along with the job, but there are also demands that come from family, constituents, schedules and their leaders and colleagues. Politics is a challenging and difficult environment and succeeding requires an extra measure of integrity.
The challenge with integrity is that you can't measure it during the election campaign. You might hear a lot about it, but integrity can only be measured through an examination of the candidates track record over time. Here are some questions you may want to consider asking as you prepare to vote? If you don't know, ask someone who does, or better yet, ask the candidate themselves? You might be surprised at their response.
1. How have they conducted themselves?
2. Have they demonstrated stability and strength over the long haul?
3. How have they handled difficult situations in the past?
4. When they have made mistakes, how have they responded?
5. Has adversity caused them to crumble or to be renewed?
6. What lessons have they learned through hardship and how does that understanding affect their world view?
Next time, we'll talk about wisdom.
Thursday, October 02, 2008
Pay Attention to the Signs
I saw the most interesting thing yesterday morning at the Regina Airport. I was waiting for my flight to Toronto and my seat was almost right beside the Men's washroom. While I was sitting there, I watched a woman get up and walk directly in the Men's washroom. She exited about 5 seconds later somewhat embarrassed and talking to herself as she quickly walked away. One minute later, another woman did exactly the same thing EXCEPT that she tried to explain herself and her mistake to the gentlemen who were already in the room.
Now... I have my own 'right idea, wrong room' experience so I'm not making fun of these ladies at all. As it happened, I couldn't help but notice that the room was well marked as the MEN's room and I wondered, why don't you just pay attention to the signs? That thought led to this...
Signs surround us. There are warning signs, opportunity signs, caution signs and of course 'for sale' signs. Our body gives us signs regarding our health and our clothing gives us signs about our bodies. (Those jeans used to be much baggier than they are now...)
The question is... how well do I pay attention to the signs around me. I'm in Toronto so I'm paying a lot of attention to the street and highway signs, but I wonder how attentive I am to some of the other signs around me. Sometimes, we miss the obvious because of the pace at which we seek to live.
Slowing down, taking a breath and a good look around can avoid a lot of awkward moments in our lives, not the least of which is finding yourself in the wrong bathroom.
Now... I have my own 'right idea, wrong room' experience so I'm not making fun of these ladies at all. As it happened, I couldn't help but notice that the room was well marked as the MEN's room and I wondered, why don't you just pay attention to the signs? That thought led to this...
Signs surround us. There are warning signs, opportunity signs, caution signs and of course 'for sale' signs. Our body gives us signs regarding our health and our clothing gives us signs about our bodies. (Those jeans used to be much baggier than they are now...)
The question is... how well do I pay attention to the signs around me. I'm in Toronto so I'm paying a lot of attention to the street and highway signs, but I wonder how attentive I am to some of the other signs around me. Sometimes, we miss the obvious because of the pace at which we seek to live.
Slowing down, taking a breath and a good look around can avoid a lot of awkward moments in our lives, not the least of which is finding yourself in the wrong bathroom.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
The Saul Factor
It sounds so lofty, but it really did happen as I was praying this morning. I was meeting with our ministry prayer group this morning and we were praying with regard to the federal election. As I waited, I had a spiritual 'aha' moment. I was reminded of Saul in the OT. As Israel's first king, Saul embodied everything that the people wanted in a leader. He was tall, striking, brave, charismatic, photogenic, good with a sword, etc, etc. Men were inspired by him and women were attracted to him. His enemies feared him. He had just enough religion to be acceptable for the important national moments but not so much that he would put people off. In short, he was exactly what they wanted. He was a king, just like every other king in the area.
Our expectations of leaders are not that different than what Saul embodied. We want our leaders to be 10 feet tall (that's 3m for some of you...) and bulletproof. Strong and brave, they should also be decisive but willing to listen to every concern from every citizen. They must be interested in babies but not 'babes' and be able to stand on a moral high ground that neither the media nor the masses can attain. They should be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, stop locomotives with a single hand, rescue damsels in distress and generally be all things to all people.
Here's my 'aha' moment from this morning. I was reminded that while Saul was everything people expected him to be, he failed miserably because he lacked everything that God expected him to be. This lesson is profoundly underlined in the scriptures where Samuel sees Saul's successor David as a young boy and is ready to dismiss him until God says that while men look on the outside, God looks at the heart. God saw and knew something about David's heart that no one else could see. God is far more impressed by the substance of our character than He is by whatever 'sizzle' we may be able to generate in the people we meet. He is more interested in our passion than He is in our potential and possibilities. He weighs our lives (and the lives of our leaders) on a completely different set of scales than what we ordinarily use.
I'm weary of the 'Saul Factor' in the political arena. I'm tired of 'being disappointed by superstar' leaders who make disastrous decisions that affect our world, our country, our communities and families. I'm going to start praying as never before that God would give us leaders at a national, provincial and community level who are men and women after God's heart. At the end of the day, I think our nation is better served by men and women of substance rather than just sizzle.
Our expectations of leaders are not that different than what Saul embodied. We want our leaders to be 10 feet tall (that's 3m for some of you...) and bulletproof. Strong and brave, they should also be decisive but willing to listen to every concern from every citizen. They must be interested in babies but not 'babes' and be able to stand on a moral high ground that neither the media nor the masses can attain. They should be able to leap tall buildings in a single bound, stop locomotives with a single hand, rescue damsels in distress and generally be all things to all people.
Here's my 'aha' moment from this morning. I was reminded that while Saul was everything people expected him to be, he failed miserably because he lacked everything that God expected him to be. This lesson is profoundly underlined in the scriptures where Samuel sees Saul's successor David as a young boy and is ready to dismiss him until God says that while men look on the outside, God looks at the heart. God saw and knew something about David's heart that no one else could see. God is far more impressed by the substance of our character than He is by whatever 'sizzle' we may be able to generate in the people we meet. He is more interested in our passion than He is in our potential and possibilities. He weighs our lives (and the lives of our leaders) on a completely different set of scales than what we ordinarily use.
I'm weary of the 'Saul Factor' in the political arena. I'm tired of 'being disappointed by superstar' leaders who make disastrous decisions that affect our world, our country, our communities and families. I'm going to start praying as never before that God would give us leaders at a national, provincial and community level who are men and women after God's heart. At the end of the day, I think our nation is better served by men and women of substance rather than just sizzle.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Strange...
Barb and I just dropped off Brittany and Zack for the youth meeting at our church. That's probably not remarkable in itself. What is remarkable is that I was the youth pastor at what is now our church 19 years ago. Some of the leaders were just kids when we left 14 years ago. Probably 30% of the crowd wasn't even born when we were on staff. Some of the kids who were there belong to people who were leaders with us.
For all of the changes and feelings of nostalgia, the more things change, the more they stay the same.
The room had 'the aroma' that can only be produced by 12 and 13 year old boys... if you've ever smelled it, you never forget it...
First time kids still cluster together, wanting to be there, but wishing they were anywhere else...
The 'cool kids' still hang out in groups. The 'uncool kids' do the same. Only the newbies are left to find their own place.
Girls still come doing their best to look at least as nice as their friends, but hopefully, just a bit better...
Youth Pastors and Leaders come full of dreams and vision for the new year.
Parents still drop off their kids and ask... 'What time will they be done...' and then they leave and try to figure out how to spend their evening...
Lucky for us there is ice cream at home...
For all of the changes and feelings of nostalgia, the more things change, the more they stay the same.
The room had 'the aroma' that can only be produced by 12 and 13 year old boys... if you've ever smelled it, you never forget it...
First time kids still cluster together, wanting to be there, but wishing they were anywhere else...
The 'cool kids' still hang out in groups. The 'uncool kids' do the same. Only the newbies are left to find their own place.
Girls still come doing their best to look at least as nice as their friends, but hopefully, just a bit better...
Youth Pastors and Leaders come full of dreams and vision for the new year.
Parents still drop off their kids and ask... 'What time will they be done...' and then they leave and try to figure out how to spend their evening...
Lucky for us there is ice cream at home...
Thursday, September 11, 2008
What To Pray For the Election
Our friends at Nation At Prayer have launched a '5 to a Million Campaign' for the Federal election asking Christians across Canada to pray for 5 minutes a day during the election. They've also provided the following prayer guide to assist you in praying effectively. You can download a copy of the guide from our website by clicking here.
2.That Canada will be a country whose elected leaders are:
- Individuals of Integrity, Discernment, Grace, Courage and Conviction
- Willing Servants
- Wisdom, Endurance and Protection for the Candidates and their families
3. That Candidates will be filled with Integrity, Courage, Humility and Grace
4. That the Holy Spirit will Guide and Guard the Thoughts and Speech of Candidates
5. That the Holy Spirit will Guide Campaign Strategy
6. That Candidates and Campaign Material will present Positions and Platforms
Clearly, Openly and Fully.
7. That the Holy Spirit will guide Electors in Examining Issues, Candidates and in
voting
8. That Every Elector Will Cherish Their Right to Vote
9. That Every Elector Will Vote
What To Pray For the Election
1. That this election will serve God's purposes for Canada.2.That Canada will be a country whose elected leaders are:
- Individuals of Integrity, Discernment, Grace, Courage and Conviction
- Willing Servants
- Wisdom, Endurance and Protection for the Candidates and their families
3. That Candidates will be filled with Integrity, Courage, Humility and Grace
4. That the Holy Spirit will Guide and Guard the Thoughts and Speech of Candidates
5. That the Holy Spirit will Guide Campaign Strategy
6. That Candidates and Campaign Material will present Positions and Platforms
Clearly, Openly and Fully.
7. That the Holy Spirit will guide Electors in Examining Issues, Candidates and in
voting
8. That Every Elector Will Cherish Their Right to Vote
9. That Every Elector Will Vote
Tuesday, September 09, 2008
Jack Layton Says PM Has A "Damascus Road' Experience
Politicians say the most interesting things. Today the Prime Minister announced that a Conservative government would provide a .02/litre reduction of the tax on diesel fuel. It will happen over 4 years and cost the government about $600 million dollars.
Mr. Layton responded that the PM must have had a 'Damascus Road Experience' in response to the anouncement. "All of a sudden it's 'road to Damascus' and he decides he's going to make an announcement in the middle of an election campaign,". (Vancouver Sun)
I've got to tell you there's something about Mr. Layton that makes me say 'hmmm....' I'm intrigued by his periodic references to biblical events. The Damascus Road experience speaks of the Apostle Paul (then named Saul) being knocked off his horse in broad daylight and then hearing a voice from heaven speak to him. In the last general election, Mr. Layton stated that 'Ottawa needs to hear the prophetic voice of the faith community.' The second quote left me 'slack-jawed'. I'm thrilled that he actually invited the faith community to speak into life on the 'hill' in Ottawa and can't wait to honor his invitation.
I'm not sure where Mr. Layton draws his material from, but it seems to me that somewhere along the way, he (or his writers...) heard enough Sunday School stories or Sunday sermons for something to take root in his life. It's almost as though the parable of the Sower and the Seed is playing out and that the seed that found some good soil is starting to produce fruit.
I hope it's true and that the seed continues to produce good fruit for many years to come!
Mr. Layton responded that the PM must have had a 'Damascus Road Experience' in response to the anouncement. "All of a sudden it's 'road to Damascus' and he decides he's going to make an announcement in the middle of an election campaign,". (Vancouver Sun)
I've got to tell you there's something about Mr. Layton that makes me say 'hmmm....' I'm intrigued by his periodic references to biblical events. The Damascus Road experience speaks of the Apostle Paul (then named Saul) being knocked off his horse in broad daylight and then hearing a voice from heaven speak to him. In the last general election, Mr. Layton stated that 'Ottawa needs to hear the prophetic voice of the faith community.' The second quote left me 'slack-jawed'. I'm thrilled that he actually invited the faith community to speak into life on the 'hill' in Ottawa and can't wait to honor his invitation.
I'm not sure where Mr. Layton draws his material from, but it seems to me that somewhere along the way, he (or his writers...) heard enough Sunday School stories or Sunday sermons for something to take root in his life. It's almost as though the parable of the Sower and the Seed is playing out and that the seed that found some good soil is starting to produce fruit.
I hope it's true and that the seed continues to produce good fruit for many years to come!
Monday, September 08, 2008
And They're Off..
Prime Minister Harper did the expected yesterday morning and called a General Election. The next 37 days will be a blur of anouncements, soundbytes, debates and controversy. Promises will be made, criticisms will be leveled and everything from the ridiculous to the sublime will be discussed on call in shows across the country. At the end of the campaign, we will be asked to mark our ballot and make our choice. Political futures of candidates will be decided, but more importantly, we will also make some choices about the destiny of our nation.
I don't believe that every election brings us to the key crossroad regarding the future of our nation, but I do believe that every election presents us with the opportunity to have a voice in shaping a part of our national destiny. That in itself is a tremendous responsibility and privilege, one that we should neither take lightly or cynically.
With the cross section of options and promises that will be presented to us nationally and locally throughout this election, the challenge will be to sort out what is best for the country and who is best suited to lead. One of the greatest challenges is to be able to see past what is good for us in the moment and to somehow discern what is best for the future. (I might really enjoy a cut in gas taxes, but if it means that the roads I drive on 5 years from now look something from Afghanistan, I might not choose to go that route....)
As I write this post, I'm reminded that the Bible promises that if we lack wisdom we should ask God who gives liberally (in the generous sense, not the one...) to anyone who needs it. I'd say that more than anything, we need true wisdom as we choose our next federal government. We need Someone who knows and understands our future to help us choose a leader in the present who can take us into the future.
Here's an invitation for you. Over the next 35 days, I'm going to be praying that God would give me wisdom and discernment as to how to vote on Oct. 14. At the same time, I want to know how many others are interested in doing the same. I don't think this has to be overly complicated or difficult. I do think that as we begin to pray that God's kingdom would be come and His will would be done through the electoral process, some amazing things could happen in Canada.
So.... who's in? You can email me (tim@leadinginfluence.com) or respond by using the comment box on either the blog or on facebook to let me know you're in this too. (FYI, I've switched to moderated comments to keep the spammers of my blog, it's just a better way to go than have strangers using my space.)
Can't wait to hear from you!
I don't believe that every election brings us to the key crossroad regarding the future of our nation, but I do believe that every election presents us with the opportunity to have a voice in shaping a part of our national destiny. That in itself is a tremendous responsibility and privilege, one that we should neither take lightly or cynically.
With the cross section of options and promises that will be presented to us nationally and locally throughout this election, the challenge will be to sort out what is best for the country and who is best suited to lead. One of the greatest challenges is to be able to see past what is good for us in the moment and to somehow discern what is best for the future. (I might really enjoy a cut in gas taxes, but if it means that the roads I drive on 5 years from now look something from Afghanistan, I might not choose to go that route....)
As I write this post, I'm reminded that the Bible promises that if we lack wisdom we should ask God who gives liberally (in the generous sense, not the one...) to anyone who needs it. I'd say that more than anything, we need true wisdom as we choose our next federal government. We need Someone who knows and understands our future to help us choose a leader in the present who can take us into the future.
Here's an invitation for you. Over the next 35 days, I'm going to be praying that God would give me wisdom and discernment as to how to vote on Oct. 14. At the same time, I want to know how many others are interested in doing the same. I don't think this has to be overly complicated or difficult. I do think that as we begin to pray that God's kingdom would be come and His will would be done through the electoral process, some amazing things could happen in Canada.
So.... who's in? You can email me (tim@leadinginfluence.com) or respond by using the comment box on either the blog or on facebook to let me know you're in this too. (FYI, I've switched to moderated comments to keep the spammers of my blog, it's just a better way to go than have strangers using my space.)
Can't wait to hear from you!
Monday, September 01, 2008
Family Update
Barb and the kids just returned from buying school supplies. That’s a definite sign that summer is over and school is about to begin.
We’ve had a great summer at our house. Tyler (our youngest) played baseball at the Provincial Championships and came home with an MVP award. His team placed 3rd. We had a lot of fun watching him play.
Zack, our middle child, didn’t play baseball, but had a lot of fun watching his brother play and cheering him on. He will play ‘fall ball’ and is looking forward to starting youth group at church this fall.
Brittany turned 15 this summer and spent most of the summer becoming even more independent. We’re very proud of her. She has some natural talent with her camera so we bought her a good quality camera for her birthday.
Barb is ready to start teaching piano and voice again this fall. She’s a great teacher and never lacks for students.
We (are hoping to run in the Royal Victoria Marathon in October. We just plan to do the 8k. Barb’s training is going much better than mine but I intend to carry on and give it my best.
Finally, Zoe (our yellow lab) is expecting a litter of puppies within a few weeks. We’ll post pictures on the blog and facebook sites when the puppies arrive.
Thanks for your prayers and interest in our lives and ministry. We appreciate you so much!
We’ve had a great summer at our house. Tyler (our youngest) played baseball at the Provincial Championships and came home with an MVP award. His team placed 3rd. We had a lot of fun watching him play.
Zack, our middle child, didn’t play baseball, but had a lot of fun watching his brother play and cheering him on. He will play ‘fall ball’ and is looking forward to starting youth group at church this fall.
Brittany turned 15 this summer and spent most of the summer becoming even more independent. We’re very proud of her. She has some natural talent with her camera so we bought her a good quality camera for her birthday.
Barb is ready to start teaching piano and voice again this fall. She’s a great teacher and never lacks for students.
We (are hoping to run in the Royal Victoria Marathon in October. We just plan to do the 8k. Barb’s training is going much better than mine but I intend to carry on and give it my best.
Finally, Zoe (our yellow lab) is expecting a litter of puppies within a few weeks. We’ll post pictures on the blog and facebook sites when the puppies arrive.
Thanks for your prayers and interest in our lives and ministry. We appreciate you so much!
September Prayer Focus
With the possibility of Federal Election looming on the horizon, we have a tremendous opportunity to see God do something amazing. Over the next 8 months, British Columbians will choose representatives for every level government that affects them. We are making plans to coordinate a province wide prayer initiative through PrayBC that will be active through the Federal, and upcoming Municipal and Provincial elections. We anticipate making an announcement about our vision for this initiative by September 15.
Please pray for Pastor Murray Lincoln as he establishes Leading Influence Ministries in Ontario. He and Alida have taken a huge step of faith and I'd like you to pray for them as they walk through days that require multiple miracles. Both Murray and I have an expectation that God is going to do some amazing things in and through the ministry this fall. Please pray that as we prepare for September through December, God would begin to open doors, make provision, and move the ministry forward.
We've planned several partner and friends events in Kamloops, Kelowna and Moose Jaw in late September. In addition to providing a ministry update, our goal is to grow our monthly partnership base. Please pray with us that we will be successful in this undertaking. If you would like to join us for any of these events, you can register online by clicking on the link or by visiting our website.
Finally, we will celebrate the launch of our Ontario ministry during the first weekend in October. This is going to be a key time for the ministry as we commission Murray and Alida to serve the Lord in this way. I'm excited about this step forward. We really want to provide a strong foundation for Murray as he and Alida move forward into a new sphere of ministry and believe that God is preparing to do something amazing in Ontario.
Please pray for Pastor Murray Lincoln as he establishes Leading Influence Ministries in Ontario. He and Alida have taken a huge step of faith and I'd like you to pray for them as they walk through days that require multiple miracles. Both Murray and I have an expectation that God is going to do some amazing things in and through the ministry this fall. Please pray that as we prepare for September through December, God would begin to open doors, make provision, and move the ministry forward.
We've planned several partner and friends events in Kamloops, Kelowna and Moose Jaw in late September. In addition to providing a ministry update, our goal is to grow our monthly partnership base. Please pray with us that we will be successful in this undertaking. If you would like to join us for any of these events, you can register online by clicking on the link or by visiting our website.
Finally, we will celebrate the launch of our Ontario ministry during the first weekend in October. This is going to be a key time for the ministry as we commission Murray and Alida to serve the Lord in this way. I'm excited about this step forward. We really want to provide a strong foundation for Murray as he and Alida move forward into a new sphere of ministry and believe that God is preparing to do something amazing in Ontario.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Is it Time to Leave Afghanastan?
Canada lost 3 more soldiers in Afghanistan this week. The total number of soldiers now killed in this action is 93. 93 sons who won't be coming home. 93 families suffering the loss of a child who won't share birthdays, reunions, Christmas and other special family functions. I couldn't find how many of these warriors have left behind children and expectant wives. Somehow, 93 soldiers just seems like a lot of people and a great sacrifice for a nation. Justin Trudeau agrees. He says it's time for Canada to leave Afghanistan. The cost in terms of losses and casualties has simply become more than what we signed up for. It's not an uncommon sentiment.
Turn back the clock almost 65 years. Next June we will remember the 65th anniversary of D-Day or the beginning of the Invasion of Normandy. The day is historic for several reasons and Canadians are remembered for their heroic acts of bravery and tremendous sacrifices on the beaches of France. If you go to Juno beach, you'll find a memorial wall built to honor and remember the 961 young men who lost their lives on that early June morning. Total casualties among all the Allied Forces on that day alone, came to approximately 9000. Canadian losses through all of WW2 totalled over 37,000. The numbers are staggering and sobering to say the least.
Our national sacrifice and the sacrifice of young men and their families created a sense of national pride and identity. We discovered ourselves and our role in the world through the horribly dark days of WW2. We are peacemakers and peacekeepers. We don't believe in peace at any price, because that approach just creates another set of victims outside of those who do the bargaining. We believe in addressing tyranny and extremism. We are opposed to the oppression of people groups and men, women and children. There's something fundamentally wrong with denying girls the right to an education, women the freedom to choose their own destiny and killing people because of their faith or lack of religious zeal.
In addition to being peacemakers and peace keepers we are rebuilding a nation that extremists leading the nation destroyed through either lack of attention or through willful acts. In either case, today in Afghanistan, young girls can go to school and get an education, health care opportunities are available to those who need them and the atmosphere is changing to something more moderate and stable.
Sadly, there are lives that are lost when we choose to bring the same freedom and hope that we enjoy to other nations . I would prefer that we could fulfill this task without the loss of life, but that's not reality. At the same time, I'm extremely proud of every soldier who puts their life on the line to serve our nation. Most come home again.
We need to stay in Afghanistan until the mission of rebuilding a shattered nation is complete. The cost of staying is significant. The price of leaving the job unfinished is far more.
Turn back the clock almost 65 years. Next June we will remember the 65th anniversary of D-Day or the beginning of the Invasion of Normandy. The day is historic for several reasons and Canadians are remembered for their heroic acts of bravery and tremendous sacrifices on the beaches of France. If you go to Juno beach, you'll find a memorial wall built to honor and remember the 961 young men who lost their lives on that early June morning. Total casualties among all the Allied Forces on that day alone, came to approximately 9000. Canadian losses through all of WW2 totalled over 37,000. The numbers are staggering and sobering to say the least.
Our national sacrifice and the sacrifice of young men and their families created a sense of national pride and identity. We discovered ourselves and our role in the world through the horribly dark days of WW2. We are peacemakers and peacekeepers. We don't believe in peace at any price, because that approach just creates another set of victims outside of those who do the bargaining. We believe in addressing tyranny and extremism. We are opposed to the oppression of people groups and men, women and children. There's something fundamentally wrong with denying girls the right to an education, women the freedom to choose their own destiny and killing people because of their faith or lack of religious zeal.
In addition to being peacemakers and peace keepers we are rebuilding a nation that extremists leading the nation destroyed through either lack of attention or through willful acts. In either case, today in Afghanistan, young girls can go to school and get an education, health care opportunities are available to those who need them and the atmosphere is changing to something more moderate and stable.
Sadly, there are lives that are lost when we choose to bring the same freedom and hope that we enjoy to other nations . I would prefer that we could fulfill this task without the loss of life, but that's not reality. At the same time, I'm extremely proud of every soldier who puts their life on the line to serve our nation. Most come home again.
We need to stay in Afghanistan until the mission of rebuilding a shattered nation is complete. The cost of staying is significant. The price of leaving the job unfinished is far more.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Another Train Wreck...
The board of Fresh Fire Ministries announced yesterday that Todd Bentley had stepped down as president of the ministry. Bentley, as you probably know was the primary leader at the Lakeland Revival. Several weeks ago, I watched the commissioning service led by Peter Wagner and attended by a number of high profile Charismatic leaders.
As I watched the service online, I just kept thinking that Todd was being set up for a huge fall. The question that kept swirling in my spirit was 'Who is going to pick up the pieces when this train leaves the track?' 3 weeks after the fact, there is a train wreck of enormous proportions. Todd and his wife have separated, he has admitted to an 'unhealthy emotional relationship', and the board has removed him as president of his own ministry. Added to that, tens of thousands of people are angry and disillusioned, the sceptics are crowing that they were right all along and the media smirks at yet another ministry leader who has crashed and burned under some close scrutiny.
I know some things about crashing and burning by both observation and experience. Crashing and burning is no fun and the pain of the crash is only enhanced by high-fiving critics who delight in your demise. The worst part is that innocent people get hurt because of the fall of the leader. Todd's wife and kids got hurt because he messed up. His staff, ministry counterparts who supported him and those who put their neck on the line for him have just been burned by his own personal failure. Add to that all of the people who travelled to Lakeland, sowed into his ministry and gave by TV. They've all just been burned too and I'm willing to guess that they aren't about to trust a church leader any time soon.
For the record, I feel bad for Todd Bentley. It would be easy to blame the people around him for not standing up to him, but I know enough people in Todd's life to know that wasn't the case. I feel bad for Todd Bentley because he fell into a deception about who he was and what the signs and wonders that were happening around him really meant. We have this ridiculous premise within the church that says if people are being saved and healed then God must be endorsing who we are and what we do. It's an intoxicating lie that we so quickly embrace because it meets some deep need for affirmation and approval in our lives. No self-respecting Christian leader would endorse Samson for ANYTHING in our world today. He was immoral, had anger issues and was generally an undisciplined 'wild man'. In spite of that, God used him as a deliverer of His people. In the New Testament, Jesus speaks about the day of Judgement when people will say, didn't we heal the sick and drive out demons in your name and He will say, depart from me, I never knew you. That verse sobers me in a heart beat and reminds me that what God wants from me is my heart.
John Maxwell says that if you fall on your face, it's good to take note of what caused it to happen. In this case, I think that the church needs to take a look at what just happened. The fact is that there were respectable people raising words of caution regarding this revival for some time. These weren't the standard critics who are opposed to everything. These are people who actually believe in healing and miracles but saw the error in Todd's teaching and methods and were courageous enough to stand up and be heard. I don't believe we need to pay attention to every critic that comes along. However, I think we've got to take a look at who is offering the criticism and if they have credibility, we need to take heed to what is being said.
Secondly, and of even greater significance is the whole matter of discernment. We've got to have our heads up and exercise discernment in our lives. It scares me that so many people could be so easily taken in by what was happening in Lakeland. I'm all for God being at work in unusual ways, but Lakeland was WAY OVER THE TOP!! Let's give our collective heads a shake and ask ourselves what's going on here and why am I giving it a second look? The reality is that Todd had an audience because people kept coming to see what was going on. GodTV kept fanning the fire and gullible kept giving and going. The really tragic thing is that 'discernment' is used to blackball people and cut them out of prayer groups and churches while at the same time we are oblivious to massive deception on a continental scale. It's time to tune into what the Spirit is saying to the church and recognize that there really are those who go about as wolves in sheep's clothing.
I hope that Todd sorts his stuff out, submits himself to godly men of the faith who will point him in the right direction. I pray that he humbles himself, gets some education and after an appropriate season, apologizes to the thousands of people who have been hurt. Most of all, I pray that he finds a way to be reconciled and restored to the wife of his youth.
As I watched the service online, I just kept thinking that Todd was being set up for a huge fall. The question that kept swirling in my spirit was 'Who is going to pick up the pieces when this train leaves the track?' 3 weeks after the fact, there is a train wreck of enormous proportions. Todd and his wife have separated, he has admitted to an 'unhealthy emotional relationship', and the board has removed him as president of his own ministry. Added to that, tens of thousands of people are angry and disillusioned, the sceptics are crowing that they were right all along and the media smirks at yet another ministry leader who has crashed and burned under some close scrutiny.
I know some things about crashing and burning by both observation and experience. Crashing and burning is no fun and the pain of the crash is only enhanced by high-fiving critics who delight in your demise. The worst part is that innocent people get hurt because of the fall of the leader. Todd's wife and kids got hurt because he messed up. His staff, ministry counterparts who supported him and those who put their neck on the line for him have just been burned by his own personal failure. Add to that all of the people who travelled to Lakeland, sowed into his ministry and gave by TV. They've all just been burned too and I'm willing to guess that they aren't about to trust a church leader any time soon.
For the record, I feel bad for Todd Bentley. It would be easy to blame the people around him for not standing up to him, but I know enough people in Todd's life to know that wasn't the case. I feel bad for Todd Bentley because he fell into a deception about who he was and what the signs and wonders that were happening around him really meant. We have this ridiculous premise within the church that says if people are being saved and healed then God must be endorsing who we are and what we do. It's an intoxicating lie that we so quickly embrace because it meets some deep need for affirmation and approval in our lives. No self-respecting Christian leader would endorse Samson for ANYTHING in our world today. He was immoral, had anger issues and was generally an undisciplined 'wild man'. In spite of that, God used him as a deliverer of His people. In the New Testament, Jesus speaks about the day of Judgement when people will say, didn't we heal the sick and drive out demons in your name and He will say, depart from me, I never knew you. That verse sobers me in a heart beat and reminds me that what God wants from me is my heart.
John Maxwell says that if you fall on your face, it's good to take note of what caused it to happen. In this case, I think that the church needs to take a look at what just happened. The fact is that there were respectable people raising words of caution regarding this revival for some time. These weren't the standard critics who are opposed to everything. These are people who actually believe in healing and miracles but saw the error in Todd's teaching and methods and were courageous enough to stand up and be heard. I don't believe we need to pay attention to every critic that comes along. However, I think we've got to take a look at who is offering the criticism and if they have credibility, we need to take heed to what is being said.
Secondly, and of even greater significance is the whole matter of discernment. We've got to have our heads up and exercise discernment in our lives. It scares me that so many people could be so easily taken in by what was happening in Lakeland. I'm all for God being at work in unusual ways, but Lakeland was WAY OVER THE TOP!! Let's give our collective heads a shake and ask ourselves what's going on here and why am I giving it a second look? The reality is that Todd had an audience because people kept coming to see what was going on. GodTV kept fanning the fire and gullible kept giving and going. The really tragic thing is that 'discernment' is used to blackball people and cut them out of prayer groups and churches while at the same time we are oblivious to massive deception on a continental scale. It's time to tune into what the Spirit is saying to the church and recognize that there really are those who go about as wolves in sheep's clothing.
I hope that Todd sorts his stuff out, submits himself to godly men of the faith who will point him in the right direction. I pray that he humbles himself, gets some education and after an appropriate season, apologizes to the thousands of people who have been hurt. Most of all, I pray that he finds a way to be reconciled and restored to the wife of his youth.
Monday, August 11, 2008
What happens after the Olympics??
We are in full blown Olympic fever at our house. We are having a lot of fun making up stories about how I used to do those things before I grew up. I was just telling Tyler how I gave up the highbar to try the rings when he shared the funniest story with me.
When he was getting ready to run in the city finals this year, someone asked his teacher where you competed after the city's if you did well. Here's what his teacher told him...
If you do well in the city finals, you go to the regional finals.
If you do well there you go to the Provincials.
If you do well there, you go to the Nationals.
If you do well there you go to the Worlds.
If you do well there you go to the Olympics.
If you do well there...
you become a teacher...
When he was getting ready to run in the city finals this year, someone asked his teacher where you competed after the city's if you did well. Here's what his teacher told him...
If you do well in the city finals, you go to the regional finals.
If you do well there you go to the Provincials.
If you do well there, you go to the Nationals.
If you do well there you go to the Worlds.
If you do well there you go to the Olympics.
If you do well there...
you become a teacher...
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
BC Day in Comox
I spent the Sunday morning of the BC Day long weekend as the guest speaker at the community church service at Nautical Days in Comox, BC. What a tremendous blessing. I was so blessed to be there! The entire morning was fantastic and I was so honored to share the vision of Leading Influence Ministries with the Church in Comox.
I was particularly thrilled to meet a city councillor from Courtenay as well as the MP for the area. Both communities are blessed to have such quality leaders who give of themselves to serve politically. While I was there I was told that Comox actually means 'land of plenty' and that the First Nations People who were there believed that the Comox Glacier was a symbol of a giant whale. They certainly were right about the land of plenty. What a beautiful place. During worship we sang 'Blessed Be Your Name In the Land That is Plentiful'. I couldn't help but feel that we were in that place.
This is a full and busy month for me. I am speaking every Sunday this month which is a bit of a change. I'm delighted to have a full schedule and look forward to seeing how the Lord will work and what He will do over the coming month.
I was particularly thrilled to meet a city councillor from Courtenay as well as the MP for the area. Both communities are blessed to have such quality leaders who give of themselves to serve politically. While I was there I was told that Comox actually means 'land of plenty' and that the First Nations People who were there believed that the Comox Glacier was a symbol of a giant whale. They certainly were right about the land of plenty. What a beautiful place. During worship we sang 'Blessed Be Your Name In the Land That is Plentiful'. I couldn't help but feel that we were in that place.
This is a full and busy month for me. I am speaking every Sunday this month which is a bit of a change. I'm delighted to have a full schedule and look forward to seeing how the Lord will work and what He will do over the coming month.
Baseball Report
Some of you will be aware that Tyler has been playing all star baseball this summer. Last week I mentioned that his team (Victoria Rebels) won the Vancouver Island Championships. This past weekend they were in Surrey for the Provincial Championships. We knew going in that they were a strong team but that they would face some equally strong opposition. They finished the round robin portion of the tournament with a record of 3 and 1. They lost their last game on Saturday when a player was hit by a line drive and was taken off the field by ambulance. The other team chose not to continue and was willing to forfeit the game but our team (even though they were at bat with no outs) accepted the score and took the loss. I'm really proud of our coaching staff and they way they handled the situation. They showed class all the way through the tournament and season and they really helped the boys develop as players and people.
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