There is alot of discussion this week on the radio on what winning an election does or does not imply, particularly when it comes to mandates.
One caller on ABC radio, who volunteered they had voted for the Coalition, stated very clearly that whilst voting this way he disagreed with the stance on Asylum seekers and on Foreign Aid. He went on to say that it is impossible for an incoming government to claim that they have won a mandate on any particular policy as voters will agree and disagree with a range of things being offered by that party.
In terms of the issues raised by this caller as Christians the question of what our democratic role is between our voting opportunities remains. How can we continue to put before the new government our concern over the way our country if treating Asylum seekers? How can we encourage a greater commitment towards overseas aid?
Making personal commitments in giving is one apsect of this but is there also not a responsbility to approach our local representatives to express our concerns and invite further contemplatation on these issues? Should we also sign the petitions and letters to seek to influence change?
As a congregation we are blessed with the presence of people on Aus Aid scholarships most of whom are studying subjects which are about community building. This investment in other countries should not be underestimated.
How does your faith convert to action? How do we support the most vulnerable people in the world?