“When Samuel grew old, he appointed his sons as judges over Israel….But his sons did not walk in his ways; they were [corrupt]. So all the elders of Israel gathered together and came to Samuel at Ramah. “Look,” they said, “you are old, and your sons do not walk in your ways. Now appoint a king to judge us like all the other nations.” – 1 Samuel 8:1-5

I have voted in every general election since 1996. Whether my preferred candidates won the election is a different matter. I played my civic duty and that’s what matters.

 I know of many prominent Christians who are not shy to stand in the queue to cast their vote and to speak out when things are going wrong.

On the other hand, some Christians fear politics and completely shun it saying it is a “dirty game.”

Others, for fear of ‘reprisals,’ opt to become the puppets of the political elite.

Whatever we choose to do, one thing that we can never do is run away from the effects of bad politics. The politics of a country is what can make it or break it.

In the long run, politics affects everyone for good or for worse.

So what should be the appropriate attitude towards politics?

In our reference Scripture today, we reflect on the social-political situation in the fledgling nation of Israel.

Prophet Samuel was a powerful prophet and the judge – the de facto national leader. 

But as he grew old and weak, he appointed his two sons to deputise for him on the political side. 

But there was a problem – the sons of the greatest prophet in the land were engaging in corruption and perverting justice! Oh dear, what a wonder!

Out of patriotism, the people realized that if those selfish leaders were left to remain in charge after Samuel, the future of their nation would be doomed.

Yes, they did love their prophet but they loved their nation more.  

They resolved to organize a delegation of elders to confront Prophet Samuel.

“We love you man of God, but you’re getting old and yet the successors you appointed are corrupt. So, please give us a proper king; we want to be like other nations with a proper government,” they argued.

As expected, this request made Prophet Samuel incensed and greatly displeased.

But the people stood their ground and refused to back down.

God eventually had to ask the prophet to calm down and “listen to the voice of the people” (see verse 7).

That’s how Saul became the first king of Israel. 

Over a 40-year period, King Saul would go on to lay the political foundation for a formidable State, complete with solid structures of government such as a national army and a judicial system. 

By the time the inexperienced and youthful David took over, a very strong nation was already in place, thanks to Saul’s governance prowess.

All credit to the people who rejected the status quo and refused to be intimidated from their quest for patriotic and pro-people political leaders.

Peaceful, prosperous and democratic countries don’t just happen; they are created by vigilant citizens who choose to love their country much more than they love their politicians or themselves.

What is your attitude towards politics/politicians?

As Christians, we have the duty to pray for our leaders (I Tim. 2:1-4) and to be subject to the rule of law (Rom. 13:1).  

But as citizens, our Constitution also gives us specific civic rights, powers, duties and privileges when it comes to politics and governance.

Being a good Christian and being a good citizen are not mutually exclusive; they are complementary.

As Christians, we are also required to love our country and to play our civic roles without fear or favour.

It’s the only country we have; we would be fooling ourselves if we expect foreigners to make it what we want it to be on our behalf.

Peaceful, prosperous and democratic countries don’t just happen; they are created by vigilant citizens who choose to love their country much more than they love their politicians or themselves.

Prayer:

Almighty God, I am thankful that I am a proud citizen of this amazing nation. Help me to make it a great nation by playing both my spiritual role and fulfilling my civic duties as a good citizen. For the glory of your name, Amen!