Well it doesn't seem all that long ago that we were all pouring over various manifestos and leaflets from all kinds of political parties who each in their own way promised to make our communities and the country a better place. 

But now the people have made their own individual choices and there have been changes in the corridors of power. It also seems that across the pond in that other country they are about to enter into similar activity. 

Myself I have read up on various manifestos from all kinds of parties in both countries. Although I have opinions, preferences and ideas I realise that no system created by man is perfect.
This caused me to remember a particular manifesto that was given to me many years go by a particular Anglican church minister who was visiting my father when he was ill. This was quite simply, a “new” kind of manifesto. It wasn’t from one of your run of the mill political parties, its origin was altogether very different.

The “Manifesto” was actually a pocket New Testament. I read it avidly in the following weeks and found out that there are some very unique, refreshing and different ideas in it which are worth living your life by, For instance In John Chapter 3 it says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life.” Also in Matthews Gospel it introduces a new concept centered around the phrase, “Love your neighbour as yourself.” (Even if you don’t agree with them.) Maybe some political leaders today would benefit from taking heed.

As a result of that visiting ministers influence and the input of many others, I decided to follow the guidance in that “Manifesto” (New Testament) and I went on to follow the Christian faith myself.
Well the UK election may be over and there are wastebaskets all over the place full of political leaflets from all the various parties, but I would personally always recommend the timeless solid gold that you will always find in the very best manifesto of all, the bible. 

Reverend David Walker,
Elim Church Romsey