Day 58 - A cross in a box

Have you been out and exercised your democratic right to vote today? Ok, I know that some people read this reflection an hour before the polling stations open and that some parts of the country aren’t even involved in elections this May, but you get the gist! If you can, have you?

A recent survey undertaken by the Electoral Commission found that a sizeable minority of people think that elections in the UK are manipulated. 42% of young people aged 18-24 said that elections are manipulated or rigged to some extent. Sadly, the question did not define how respondents should interpret either ‘rigged’ or ‘manipulated’ and it is likely some people will have applied a broad definition in their answer, possibly including concerns about media bias.

I think this is a reference to the “those-who-shout-the-loudest-get-the-most-attention” view of life. And it’s generally thought that those with the deepest pockets are able to shout the loudest. But do we always listen to those making the most noise? And do we ever respond? Beware, disagree with any of them, and they shout all the louder! Every social media channel has its share of people demanding we do this or that. Television news anchors, talk shows, and everyone else with a camera have an opinion about how we should live, what to think, and how we should feel about nearly everything. It’s sometimes hard to drown out the din.

In a world full of a cacophony of noise is it possible to make our voices heard? I wonder if that thought went through the head of Bartimaeus? We should be encouraged by the story of Bartimaeus because of his faith and determination, and because he refused to listen to a shouting crowd. In the story in Mark’s Gospel (10:46-52), he was struggling to catch the attention of Jesus. And what was worse, those around him called on him to be silent. But that just made him shout even louder. For that he was rewarded, as Jesus stopped and called him over.

If you were asked by Jesus, “What can I do for you?”, what would your answer be?

Some would ask for something personal, some would ask for something more corporate. If the answer came from a deep yearning and longing, like Bartimaeus, I don’t think the request would go unanswered.

One thing is for certain, we need our voice to be heard in this world. Whether we are railing against injustice, speaking out for the truth or proclaiming the good news message of Jesus Christ, never let your voice be silent. Be an influence for good in your church and in your community. Lead by example. Advocate for equality and fairness. Pray at all times. And get out there and vote!

Gracious God, give me a voice to praise you.

May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer. Amen.

Neil Chappell