 The recent general election has indeed been a surprise to practically all.
Many were taken aback by the unprecedented win (and loss) and the slaying of political giants by unknowns. The relatively peaceful transition and opposition’s decision to withhold provocative celebrations show responsibility and maturity on the part of the leaders and rakyat.
Indeed it’s heartening to note that democracy is alive in Malaysia.
Now that it is over, I have a wish list.
Firstly, it’s that the Church would continue to be hopeful. The psalmists have continually encouraged the people of the Book to "hope". [1]
Stay put to make a difference. Hope in God. Do not fear, don’t run. Hope in God. Don’t just look at the system but look to God, the author of our hope. He has once again proven Himself to be faithful. He alone is our future.There is always hope.
Secondly, be proactive - the recent general election saw more Christians politically aware and enthusiastic in wanting to examine the manifestos of the different political parties, even going to ceramahs to hear what the political candidates had to say. I think the number and intensity of Christians that made such efforts are admirable.
It was also the first time that NECF Malaysia engaged in dialogues with MCA (led by Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting), DAP (led by Secretary-General Lim Guan Eng) and de facto PKR leader Anwar Ibrahim to impartially hear them. Because we are non- partisan, remember...
Now that the election is over, I pray that we would not forget to hold the new MPs and state assemblymen accountable to their pledges, to tell them we will not stand for more of the same. We would like them to deliver their promises. And we are in no mood for nonsense.
In this election, we see the races closing ranks especially in the urban areas. On leaving our different polling stations, my wife and I were encouraged by Malays with thumbs-up signs of "rocket, rocket." I do not think the results were a vote against the establishment, individual candidates or against a particular race, but a vote against arrogance, corruption and religious insensitivities.
Unity is rearing its "beautiful" head - be discerning. For the first time, many can believe and see the possibility of the ever-elusive "Bangsa Malaysia." If ever there is political will to usher in this new Malaysian identity, it is now.
Let us also be vigilant. Prior to the elections, there was a round-the-clock prayer initiative, testimony to our belief that our prayers for the nation are fundamental and imperative.
Now that the election is over, it is really just the beginning of much that needs to be done. The seed of corruption is still there, the ACA is still not as strong and independent as it should be, the judiciary fiasco is still unresolved and worse still, the Church is ill-reputed to rest prematurely. We must continue to pray that God would transform this nation into one that would be the envy of many.
Lastly, let us be bold. During the times of Acts, the Church was warned "not to speak at all." [2] Today, the Church has to be cajoled, even begged, to be unafraid and speak up. It’s time we make our voices heard and say, "We want a clean, just, righteous, sincere and transparent government."
And as we, the Church, "do what is right, love mercy, walk humbly" [3] before our God, I have no doubt we would be back on track.
In the December 2007 issue of Berita NECF, I said, "many fail to see that our God wants to be merciful to our nation. This is my hope."
Today, we see this come true in Malaysia!
Footnote
[1] Psalm 38:15 (NKJV) "For in You, O Lord, I hope; You will hear, O Lord my God." Psalm 42: 5 "Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him; the help of My countenance and my God."
[2] Acts 4:18
[3] Micah 6:8 NLT |
