From: ARPA Canada
To: Robert Jason
From my mailbox June 25th, 2010
Sent: Friday, June 25, 2010 2:17 PM
Subject: Something to consider as you go into the summer
Dear Robert Jason
The past two decades should teach us that if Christians want to make a meaningful difference in Canadian society on issues like marriage, family, and the sanctity of life, we have to be proactive. It isn’t enough to hold big rallies or send thousands of letters when our governments or courts are making devastating changes. If we are engaged in public life on an ongoing basis, even when there are no “big” issues before our courts or governments, we are able to promote positive ideas and work toward seeing these ideas implemented. That is what being salt and light is all about.
It is quite clear that the push for the legalization of euthanasia and assisted suicide will only strengthen in Canada in the years to come. We are very grateful that the Reformed church community played an important role in speaking out against Bill C-384 – not just when it came to a vote in Parliament, but also in the entire year prior to that. Because of your ongoing prayers and action, we are turning from cynicism and apathy to proactive engagement.
Action Challenge: As you go into the summer months, consider setting some time aside to think about how you can use your talents and gifts for God’s Kingdom in a way that promotes a proactive engagement with public life. Nobody is excluded from having a role. You don’t have to be “political” to do this. But it does require us to give it some thought and perhaps leave our comfort-zone for a while. For example, if you enjoy helping the elderly you can play an important role in affirming the value of their lives by making visits to a nursing home. If you are part of a young people’s Bible Study you can take the time to introduce your peers to the reasons why people are requesting euthanasia and assisted suicide and what we can do in response (showing the DVD Turning the Tide might be a good way to do this). Regardless of our age, there are many public non-profits, charities, boards, and causes that would be thrilled to benefit from your involvement. For example, a new organization called “Living with Dignity” was recently founded in Quebec to proactively affirm the value of life in that province.
ARPA Canada is also trying to lead by example in this regard. This week we sent in a 12 page submission to the Quebec government’s special committee on “dying with dignity”. You can read our submission here.
The ARPA Action Meter hasn’t been moving up much lately. That is understandable, given that summer is a time to take a step back from some of our regular activities. But keep in mind that two of the options on the meter are “I got involved with a social or political event, organization, or party” and “I did something else, not listed above.” Prayerfully consider how you can fulfill your civic and Christian duty in the public square through the summer and in the months to come.
For the glory of our King,
ARPA Canada