“In everything give thanks,” we are told. We do. We rejoice in the privileges granted to us by our wonderful Creator. As we approach Thanksgiving Day, it is good to remind ourselves of the many ways that God has provided for our needs, protected us from harm, guided us along the paths He has prepared for us, and helped us to see His hand of mercy even amidst the troubles and confusion we see around us.

In the year since the last federal election, much has happened, both good and bad. Around the world, we hear of “wars and rumours of wars.” In the US, the presidential election cycle has descended into the most crude and disrespectful exchanges imaginable between individuals and parties, so unbecoming of those who aspire to lead the country seen for decades as the leader of the free world. In days gone by, presidential candidates were statesmen, philosophers, servants of the people. Today, we cringe to think that the debates, advertisements and images of the 2016 campaign are more like an extension of Reality TV. News anchors and commentators pore over every statement and look for every possible transgression with which they might embarrass a candidate or create a division. Sadly, they’re finding lots to criticize.

Across the globe, under the UN’s self-absorbed and biased eye, the massacres continue, whether of Christians by ISIS and Al Quaeda or of Syrians by Russian bombers. Our hearts are saddened every day by the brutality of man to man and the vicious appetite for torture and death. Indeed, here in Canada, at the end of this month, we will again be the unwilling witnesses of the pagan rites and rituals that accompany Halloween. Under the guise of children’s fun and fantasy, ghastly ghouls and demons of death will be invited to present themselves in our streets and schools. The fascination with death and dying, with evil and darkness mystifies me but a nation that rejects the Living God will be ever seeking other gods to occupy their minds. With so many TV shows and movies glorifying death and violence, is it any wonder that our young people, having been robbed of their faith, should follow the paths of purposelessness, despair, and death?

But we are not purposeless. We are not in despair. We are thrilled that the God of the Universe who has given us “everything that pertains to life and godliness” should take a personal interest in our lives, should lead us by the hand, should deliver us from evil and should show us the “paths of righteousness” for His name’s sake. We are grateful for the opportunities He has given us “in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation” to proclaim His truth, His righteousness, and His guidelines for a just and peaceful society.

In this Season of Thanksgiving (for thanksgiving could never be limited to only one day; it is the expression of a full and grateful heart that flows out of the richness of his grace), I am thankful for His presence, provision, and protection in Medicine Hat, Alberta, where I am contesting the by-election for Medicine Hat-Cardston-Warner, the federal riding of former MP Jim Hillyer. It has been a real privilege to spend time in this oasis in the rich, fertile prairies and to see God’s hand at work in the community. I’ve met so many wonderful Christians and Christian leaders, shepherds of the flocks who have extended to me the “right hand of fellowship.” God has brought new friends and supporters, new members and new insights into His plans to restore His righteousness through men and women of faith.

I’m very encouraged by the enthusiastic responses I’ve received from many folks I’ve met. We are determined to give this campaign our best efforts and to ensure that the voters of Medicine Hat—Cardston—Warner are made aware of the principled policies of the Christian Heritage Party. They will be given an opportunity to vote for the ONLY federal party unwaveringly committed to the defence of all innocent human life, the restoration of traditional marriage between one man and one woman, the defence of freedom of speech and freedom of religion, parental rights and responsibilities as primary educators of their children and a return to fiscal discipline in government.

Because this by-election will not change the balance of power in Ottawa I am hopeful that voters will be less bound by strategic voting and more motivated to vote for the policies that are important to them and the party which best represents their views.

How can you help?

The campaign is well underway. We have ordered signs and brochures and will have mailing costs as well. We hope to run YouTube ads, TV ads, and radio ads depending on available finances. We want to make the best use of this time and we need your help to complete the task. My campaign webpage now has a donate button where supporters can make online donations. Those who wish to mail a cheque to Glen Dueck, Official Agent for Rod Taylor can send those cheques to:

Rod Taylor Campaign
PO Box 24004 Crestwood
Medicine Hat, AB
T1A 8M8

Voting Day is October 24 but advanced Polls begin on October 14. The sooner you can help, the more quickly we’ll be able to run our ads and the more effective those ads will be.

In this season of Thanksgiving, I give thanks to you and for you, our faithful friends and supporters! Along with my request, I wish each one of you God’s blessings on your homes, your families, your schools, your farms, and businesses. We are grateful for your friendship and your commitment to the CHP. Any readers who are not already members—this would be a great time to join!

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