By Father Joseph Chan Wing-chiu
Last Wednesday, Hong Kong’s chief executive delivered the third policy address of his term. Did you pay attention to the content of the speech? Are you satisfied with his governance? When we talk about the policy address, most of us focus on the parts related to people’s livelihood and economy, or what contributions and benefits it will bring to ourselves and our related organisations as the criteria to judge whether the policy address is good or bad. However, we often forget what the Lord Jesus Christ and the Apostles reminded us in the Bible.
According to the readings for this coming Mission Sunday, St. Paul the Apostle, in his letter to Timothy, reminds us to pray for our rulers, our authorities, our officials. For it is the will of the Lord Jesus Christ that all men should be saved. As citizens, it is natural for us to be concerned about the administration of government. As believers, however, have we ever remembered the teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ and prayed for those who are in charge of the government, that the Lord would give them the wisdom, grace, and ability to fulfill their duties?
The Synod of Bishops is taking place in the Vatican this month. On the one hand, we pray for each and every member of the congregation, that the Holy Spirit of God will guide us in our journey of synodality, and bring to the Church a more vital direction for the life of faith based on the gospel.
At the same time, however, we should not forget that every year the Church, in accordance with the apostolic tradition, includes in the prayers of the faithful on Holy Friday, well wishes for those who govern the country and society, or for those who are in government. Although the liturgical arrangement is only once a year, it is a sign of the Church’s emphasis on the teachings of tradition.
Let us reflect on whether we as Christians have ever remembered those people in public office in our normal prayer life. We believe that all power comes from God, but we also understand that the purpose of power is to serve. Therefore, we should pray all the more for those who have power and responsibility, asking God to continue to give them favour and help so that they can properly fulfill their mission, work for the public good, and make concerted efforts for the integral development of the public.
When we are willing to fulfill this Christian vocation, we are disciples of Christ, children of God our Father, and people will be able to see in our lives and behaviour that God’s love is universal.
May the good prayer intentions of Christians help more people to discover God’s presence among us. Please continue to pray for all!
