Editorial by Julia Doxat-Purser

Isaiah 1:10

Learn to do right; seek justice.

Defend the oppressed.

Take up the cause of the fatherless;

plead the case of the widow.

As the European Evangelical Alliance’s socio-political representative, I love all the politics in the Bible. And there’s a lot of it! Scripture makes it clear what the Lord believes to be good in society and what His priorities are. God longs for right relationships between people, creation and Himself. He detests injustice and oppression. And He demands that His people get directly involved in fighting these evils and working for His Shalom instead.

The trouble is that I fear I could sink with all the terrible things that are going on. The news overwhelms me. Just last week, at the European Freedom Network Bridge conference, I heard of someone rescued from human trafficking; a pregnant 11-year old. I learnt a little about the atrocities of rape, war, terrorism or famine. What must it be like to experience these things directly?

EEA is privileged to have many amazing networks fighting injustice, caring for the vulnerable and working for peace & reconciliation. We encourage you to support the work of the Refugee Highway Partnership or the Peace & Reconciliation Network or the European Freedom Network. And let’s stay connected in prayer and solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Ukraine.

But, as citizens, we all have possibilities to make a difference directly through our engagement with the democratic process. The EEA has prepared an election pack for the European Parliament June elections to help you think, pray and vote with discernment. We also love the Nehemiah Center’s project of equipping local churches to connect directly with their elected politicians.

Ultimately, I believe that there is hope for Europe because God is working through local Church. The Lord may or may not choose to lessen the socio-political troubles we face. But He is using His Church to be places of life, light, belonging and hope. Let’s continue to share stories of all of that wonderful impact.

If we look at all the injustice and oppression in this world, I will indeed be overwhelmed. But the Lord wants me to remember that I am simply His child. I am to look at Him first, and to ask Him to lead me in what He wants me to pray and care about.

It’s the book of Micah that makes it crystal clear what we are to do.

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

And what does the Lord require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy

and to walk humbly with your God. 

Micah 6:8

Please use, translate and promote the European Union Election Pack Materials found [here]

Image credits: Annie Spratt on Unsplash