Lyndon Bowring

Why we must pray for our politicians

Executive Chairman of CARE, Lyndon Bowring comments on the causes close to the heart of the Christian community.

Tragically, last October, Sir David Amess, the MP for Southend West was stabbed to death during a constituency surgery.

He was a devout Roman Catholic who was greatly loved and respected, a strong campaigner for traditional marriage, religious freedom and pro-life issues. CARE worked closely with him over many years.

This terrible tragedy for Sir David’s family and friends also raised serious concerns not only about MPs’ physical safety but also the effects of the vitriolic online abuse they receive.

People sometimes ask me how many Christian MPs there are. It’s not easy to answer – some are more open about their faith than others, but there are scores of men and women in the House of Commons and the House of Lords who would describe themselves as Christians.

There was a significant influx of new MPs – about 20 of them committed Christians – in the wake of the 2009 expenses scandal, and in the 2019 General Election more were elected.

Prayer takes place across party divides and CARE works with many of them – as well as other Parliamentarians of good will who support our causes.

They often say how they appreciate the encouragement and prayers of their constituents.

Every year, over 700 MPs, Peers and church leaders gather for the National Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast in Westminster Hall.

CARE is one of the sponsors of this occasion ‘to pray for Parliament, government and politics, build relationships between church leaders and their local MPs, and reflect upon the relevance of the Christian faith to our public life’.

We thank God for everyone involved in all our UK Parliaments and in the Northern Ireland Assembly who are Christ’s ‘light and salt’ at the heart of politics.

Over many years we’ve seen how their involvement has warded off unhelpful laws and strengthened good legislation.

Maybe your local MP is not like that; maybe you didn’t vote for them because you disagree with their politics and moral principles. However, we must still pray for them.

In 1 Timothy 2:1-2 Paul writes: “I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.”

Let’s thank God for
- their public service, both to their constituents and nationally;
- ask for blessing and protection for them and their families;
- pray for integrity, wisdom and courage as they take part in the work of Parliament;
- and intercede for their spiritual needs.

And why not write to them to tell them that’s what you’re doing? We can never know how God might use your words of encouragement.

First published in the February 2022 issue of Direction, Elim’s monthly magazine. Subscribe now to get Direction delivered to your home.

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