Thought for the week

by Rev Richard Walker – Vicar of St. John’s Church, Yeadon

DECISIONS. Some are easier than others - tea or coffee, Eastenders or Corrie, black shoes or brown shoes? Which we opt for is a matter of personal taste. Other decisions are more important, yet less clear-cut. Which job we apply for or where we choose to live could affect our lives a good deal and yet it is not always easy to see the best way forward. Then there are those decisions we are asked to make that will impact not only ourselves but the lives of many other people and even the whole nation. In just a few days’ time, we have such a decision to make.

I am referring, of course, to the EU referendum. Should we stay or should we go? But, here is the difficulty we face. The issues involved are complex and it’s hard to reach an informed view of the pros and cons of the two options. We are not lacking in information and advice – the TV, newspapers and internet are buzzing with various voices arguing for their position. But, it’s so contradictory – that’s the problem. As soon as one ‘expert’ tells us why it’s better to vote one way, then someone from the opposing camp shouts back ‘Oh no it isn’t!’ And so the political pantomime rolls on to its climax, when we all get to make our decision.

Strangely enough, when it comes to religious issues many today are reluctant to make decisions. Somehow we have made a virtue out of sitting on the fence in this aspect of life. Why am I here? Is there a God? How should I live? What is true? What is my purpose? These are the most important questions of life, and the decisions we make affect our lives in the present and, possibly, for eternity. So surely we should be prepared to give them serious consideration. And having considered, we must decide what to do, for tomorrow may be too late. As the Bible says, “We urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain…Now is the time of God’s favour, now is the day of salvation.” In the mercy of God we have in this life the capacity and freedom to make many decisions. Let us consider carefully how we should vote next week. But may we give even greater consideration to the ultimate direction of our lives.