While our civic duty is to vote, our Christian duty is to pray.
We pray for the candidates; those we vote for, and those we vote against. We recognise the challenges they have accepted by putting their names forward for public service; that by doing so they have been heavily scrutinized and criticised for every questionable decision or out-of-context comment; that they have opened their personal and private lives to the public both in this campaign and into the future; that some have endured attack ads and mud-slinging campaign tactics, and that some have engaged in the same. We pray for the candidates who will win this election for the first time, for those who will win re-elected seats, and for those who will not be elected: may they remain faithful to a life of humble service.
We pray for those who work the elections: who endure long hours on election day; who are expected to be polite and helpful with everyone they encounter, even those who are unfriendly and unhelpful to them; who spend extra time with those needing extra assistance with language, mobility, or first-time voters. May the elections staff be kind-hearted and patient, and may they find their service to the process to be fulfilling and positive.
We pray for the Canadian voters: for those who have been keen to vote; for those who have been apathetic during this long campaign; for those whose interest in political affairs will wane once the election is over. We pray for those who will journey long distances and wait in long lines; for those who are unable to cast their ballot; for those who have experienced strife or discord within families and friends due to difference in political agendas.
Gracious Lord, may we discern your truth as we choose leaders to govern our country in peace and justice.
May we recognise that our political differences do not stop us being brothers and sisters in your family.
May we see your presence this Election Day, and every day.
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