What Shall We Do?

So it's happened - worst case scenario! Both major parties in disarray. Who will lead us through these troubled times? This is a particular time when Christians need to be alert, have a special part to play. Here's what I've been saying to folk here:

1. The call to prayer. It is imperative that we give ourselves to this mandate to intercede for all in authority (1 Timothy 2.1-4 for example). We need to pray for leaders who will put nation before self, and common-good values before political dogma. The post-communion prayer for last Sunday was particularly appropriate and echoes Paul's words that good, prayed-for government enables the Church to do its work as well as providing for the good of all. Grant O Lord, we beseech you, that the course of this world may be so peaceably ordered by your governance, that your Church may joyfully serve you in all godly quietness: through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
2. Be faithful. It is easy to fall into the negativity, cynicism and despair of the present time - and the fear of what the future might hold. I feel particularly for those charitable organizations which depend on European funding. They must be feeling particularly vulnerable at the moment. What guarantee can they have that UK funding will take its place? Nevertheless, remembering we are citizens of heaven first and foremost, we need to deepen our trust in the living God and look daily for signs of his kingdom in our midst. 
3. Be encouragers - and bless.  If we follow 1.and 2. we will be best able to be a force for good and for God. There are more who are with us than against us. The response to Jo Cox's murder reminds us that goodness is stronger than evil, love stronger than hate. We need to stand with all people of good will, and do our best to help relations, friends, colleagues in the struggle for all that is good, beautiful, true and just.