Thought for the Week

One week to go and then, whatever our politics, I think most of us will just be glad the election is all over.

We’ve sat through weeks of politicians assuring us of the wonderful things they can do for our country, the problems their manifestos solve, and (all too often) how their opponents are disreputable, dishonest and heartless.

It’s this last bit that troubles me. We seem to live in a time that the only way to engage in political debate is to shout that the “other lot” is uncaring, stupid and probably just in it for the money.

Maybe it was always like that – or maybe that we can type an angry tweet or Facebook post makes it all the easier to be abusive. Yes, the issues are vitally important, but are the personal attacks really necessary?

I am privileged to have friends who support all of the major parties. Indeed, I have friends who have stood for or held elected office in all of them. They are all passionate about public service. They are caring, honest, hardworking and not motivated by money any more than the rest of us.

Every time I am tempted to think the worst of politicians with whom I disagree, I try to remind myself that there are good people among them, and some of them are friends and fellow Christians.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of those who serve us in elected office, and to thank those offering themselves for service in every constituency in Britain, and in particular in Rutherglen and Hamilton West.

I won’t be voting for most of you. I honestly hope some of you lose. But your willingness to endure the inevitable abuse, to make your case, to offer your passion, and if elected to serve your community, is something I appreciate.

If you pray, please pray for all candidates, especially perhaps for those you won’t vote for. Ask God to bless them whether in victory or disappointment. And may God bless and guide all of us. Alistair May, Stonelaw Parish Church