In just 10 days from now, on September 20, we will find ourselves voting in another federal election.

This is the time to share our voices as Canadian families and as followers of Christ. I encourage and challenge every one of us to perform our civic duties by voting. What a privilege to be able to vote for the candidates and parties we each feel best reflects our personal values!

In addition to voting, I want to challenge us all to be civil in our discourse. We live in a constantly connected world with social media which provides easy discourse, but it’s also easy for that discourse to become heated and volatile. While it takes seconds to post a comment or reply to someone whose values differ from ours, we have the choice either to contribute to division or to be agents of peace.

I believe we should speak up with our values and beliefs, but to do so in a way that bears witness to Christ. As it says in James 1:19-21, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.”

No matter the outcome of the election, we can find peace in the truth that God already knows the outcome and he goes before us. Join me in praying for our current leadership and for a peaceful election.

Blessings,

Jean-Paul Beran
President
Focus on the Family Canada