June 2016
Yesterday, traveling with my daughter, I was asked the question that seems to be on everyone’s lips. Are you voting in or out? Watching some people on the TV the other night shows how passionate and how angry the issue has become. The politicians haven`t helped with their scare-mongering and portents of doom. How do we respond to this question?
I was reading the “IDEA” magazine and I thought the questions raised were relevant to all Christians. First, Who are we? Are we European or, in my case, a Yorkshireman? Well neither, actually! As a Christian I am no longer defined by where I was born or where I live but where I`m headed! I`m am an exile, “longing for a better country—a heavenly one”, journeying to a better home, as we have been studying in 1 Peter. Being in or out of Europe won`t change that.
Secondly, Are we free? Coming out of Europe, so the Brexit side says, will free us from the bureaucratic red-tape of Brussels. As a Christian, I am already free “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free”. Not free to do as I like but free to serve the Living God. Again in or out can`t alter that.
Thirdly, Who governs? Who has authority over which decisions are taken? Jeremy Paxman looked at that last week and it was complicated to say the least. The EU supposedly works on the principle that decisions should be taken at the level closest to the people they affect, which is obviously not always the case. Although, as Christians, we are instructed to obey the relevant authorities they are not the ones who have the final say. Our life is governed by our Saviour Jesus Christ, “my Lord and my God”, and though the EU government may come or go, He will remain the same.
Finally, What about the money? If you have followed any of the debates you might be forgiven for thinking that money is the only thing that matters. In a materialistic society the bottom line is everything. This is not the central issue but it is worth considering what weight we put on our wallet when we make political decisions. “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”. If you have put your hope in Christ Jesus you have an “inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you”, and in or out of the EU cannot change that. Hallelujah!
I am not sitting on the fence as you may be thinking. After prayerful consideration, and not because of the Brexit campaign, I will be voting LEAVE. Can I encourage you to pray before casting your vote.
Every blessing be yours in Christ Jesus. John & Hilary
Scartho Celebration Church 