In politics, talking points are meticulously constructed word phrases that help political groups and individuals express their party’s values, vision, and identity. By sticking to the talking points, politicians and their spokespeople can stay on message. It helps them to remain focused and not get easily panicked by antagonistic questioning.
In the House of Commons, you may notice that many of the questions asked are never really answered directly. This is because they use the talking points to steer the conversation and to control the narrative. They believe the one who controls the narrative will get the votes.
The defeat of Cathay Wagantall’s bill C-311 is concerning. Why would we not want to produce laws that would protect women and, in this case, pregnant women? Discussion of this bill in the house centred around abortion rights. This is unfortunate as the bill did not seek to influence revisions to abortion rights. I believe this was simply a political calculation. The government believed that steering the talking points to abortion rights and defeating the bill would give them the upper hand at election time.
I am reminded of the story of Balak and Balaam found in Numbers 22-24. Balaam, is a non-Jewish sorcerer and prophet hired by Balak, King of Moab to curse the Jews. Balaam found himself unable to curse them. Selfishly, he wanted the reward promised by Balak but he could not stick to the talking points. Instead, he gave the Jews four fantastic blessings, one of which prophesied of the coming Messiah. God compelled Balaam with new talking points.
Pray that our Members of Parliament would be pledged to what is true, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. Pray for wisdom and revelation so they would know Him better. Pray for the eyes of their hearts to be able to see the reality of Jesus. Pray that they would be able to hear the truth above the political noise and have the courage to act on and speak the truth.
Pray that when it comes to the good of our nation, they would have one heart and one harmonious purpose. Pray for freedom from pride-filled opinions and that concern for Canada and Canadians would be of greater concern than selfish interest or political gain.
Pray for salvation to break out in the hearts of all of our MP’s and their families.
" Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."
Philippians 4:8
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