During the 2011 federal election, I was struck by something about the all-candidates’ meetings and CHP gatherings I attended: there were no youth. Amid crowds of mostly middle-aged and retired people, my siblings and I stuck out like sore thumbs.
It disturbed me. I wondered if electoral districts across the country were anything like this; and if so, who would be attending these meetings in 30 years.
I know there are many dedicated youth within CHP Canada. But some of us, while we support the party’s platform, don’t do much about it.
There’s a variety of reasons. Maybe politics seem irrelevant to our lives. Maybe we don’t want to put out the effort required to do more. Maybe we don’t have the time. Maybe we wonder if it’s worth it. Maybe we think the work is already being done by older members in the CHP. So, why should we get involved?
There are three good reasons.
First, politics do affect us personally. The party in power, and the direction our country takes, will change our lives.
You and I are the ones who will have to pay back our national debt sometime in the future. Whether the government adds to it or starts paying it off matters to us. In our society, we live with the consequences of a government that allows same-sex marriage. We experience the disregard for life and emotional damage caused by widespread abortions.
The kind of government that’s in power affects your life now—and your future.
Second, our actions make a difference. Our willingness to step up and take responsibility will build a stronger party and make it a more effective voice for truth. We can influence others by showing them there are people who want a government that acknowledges God’s supremacy, upholds the family, and enacts just laws. Those in other parties can be driven to take a stand on these issues when they realize a large group of people care about them. Friends and acquaintances will be encouraged to explore CHP Canada when they see our support for it.
Third, we are responsible to get involved. Isaiah 1:17 tells us to “seek justice, correct oppression.” Better government is not the only solution to injustice and oppression. But a part of seeking justice is trying to change our government for the better, and supporting a political party that is based on Christian principles.
We should get involved because it’s right. If this is the political party we can support in good conscience, we should be willing to put our money, time, and talents where our convictions are. For the good of our country, we need to support moral, responsible government.
Don’t leave CHP work up to those who are older. Go to your local Christian Heritage Party meetings, find out how you can help, learn more about the party’s policies, and talk with people about the CHP.
Let’s step out of our comfort zones and get involved.