Talking Point – August 2024

I AM WRITING this before the General Election, and you will be reading it when the result of the election is known. Whichever government has been elected, what is it we hope for, long for, or expect from the government of our country?
People who act competently, imaginatively, radically and determinedly to improve the level of public services, perhaps, especially the quality of our drinking water, road surfaces, social care and health provisions?
People who make wise decisions for the good of the country rather than their party?
People of integrity, of statesmanship, of vision with regard to our relationships with other nations and the issues of security, trade, ecology and migration?
People of compassion and honesty who put the needs of people before theories, ideology and face-saving?
People who have the grace and humility to recognise when things have gone wrong, who can apologise and endeavour to rectify situations that have become skewed?
Is all this too much to ask, or are these reasonable hopes to cherish as basic standards for political life?
Whoever our newly elected Member of Parliament may be, she or he will need our critical support. We recognise that it takes courage to enter politics in view of hate mail and possible physical violence.
The Christian Gospel offers a distinctive and unique perspective on political life.
It can guide and inspire those in power with the vision and values that seek to safeguard and respect human beings by working for what makes for our peace, justice and truth.
Can we make it our aim to work with our Member of Parliament and our Government (local and national) to promote the highest standards of national life?
Revd. David Jenkins is a member of the Methodist Team Ministry