Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others. Philippians 2:3-4
Christians believe the straightforward truth that to be human is to be made in God’s image and therefore to have intrinsic worth and dignity. We are invited to love God with every aspect of our being, which means that our feelings, thoughts, concerns hopes and dreams matter.
But in recognising our own humanity, we are also called to recognise the same intrinsic worth in others, and indeed, as people of the Gospel, to place others above ourselves.
As the election campaign unfolds, what are the underlying motives and intents of the various political stories that emerge and those who promote them? Are we being asked to embrace agendas that simply serve our own self-interest? Are policies being promoted that place the interests of some above the needs and well-being of others? Are those who seek our vote serving their own interests or seeking to promote the common good?
This is a time for God’s people to make our voices heard. What should we be saying? Who should we be listening to – and whose voices are being drowned out?
