Some people believe that religion and politics don't mix. But politics and religion both ask basic questions about who we are, what we believe, and how we should act. It's impossible for them not to be intimately related.
70 years ago this week when the United Nations General Assembly convened for the first time, the chosen venue was a thriving church – Westminster Central Hall. This impressive venue has hosted live televised electoral debates, and speeches by Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi and Boutros Boutros Ghali. If you visit you will find a plaque that reads "To the Glory of God and in prayer for peace on Earth", commemorating the first ever meeting of the General Assembly of the UN from January 10 to February 14, 1946.
Though it's a few weeks past now, the angels' song of Christmas may still linger on in our memories. "Peace on earth" is what the heavenly host proclaimed to lowly underclass shepherds on a Bethlehem hillside. The coming of Jesus was supposed to have political consequences. But as we look around the world today, the angels' declaration seems a long way from being fulfilled.
I think the apostle Paul would nevertheless want us to continue to pray for the work of the UN. He certainly seemed to think that politics and faith went hand in hand when he wrote these words:
"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.<sup>"
Lord, Father of Humankind, please unite us as one family.
Jesus, Prince of Peace, please fulfil the angel's song for peace on earth.
Spirit of Reconciliation, please guide our leaders to seek the common good.
Amen.
This is an adapted version of Krish Kandiah's Prayer for the Day, which he will be giving every day on Radio 4 this week. You can listen to the original broadcast here.
