So, the country is being run under new leadership as the campaign promised.
And what can we expect from this?
Well, I have come across two interesting pieces online that could help us see what this may look like.
The first is Mr Rudd’s essay on Faith in Politics. It was written before the election and shows a man with an understanding of history, politics, theology and ethics. This shows not just an intellect, but someone willing to engage in public discourse about issues.
The second shows that this is not just an in the head thing – Mr Rudd woke up early Boxing Day and served the needy breakfast This is a good sign of things to come.
And it is a challenge to myself and the church – how many church leaders do you know of that have either written up something, open for public discussion let alone gone and served the needy in their local communities?
Interesting post! If you
Interesting post!
If you have the time, I thoroughly recommend listening to this ABC Religion Report audio podcast interview with Rudd while he was still Foreign Minister, shortly before taking the Labor leadership:
http://www.fileden.com/files/2006/11/11/
370596/01%20Rel%20Rpt%202007-01-03.mp3
In it, Rudd discusses why he chose to write this paper, which describes his admiration for Dietrich Bonhoeffer, perhaps the 20th century’s most important theologian. He also gave in-depth responses to faith, politics, reason, Hill$ong, NGO’s and more.
Fascinating stuff. In fact, I was so impressed by this podcast that I listened to it multiple times, and it was a key factor in swaying my preferences this time round.
Most interestingly of all, Rudd appears genuine. Given the party’s notoriety for strong secularity and a dim view of religion (excluding the other Christian of note, Peter Garrett), Rudd had little to gain by writing this paper, and much to lose. Indeed, he has quietly but openly made many other potentially ‘embarrassing’, ‘religious’ admissions, including:
- He keeps a Bible, face up, on his office desk, and reads it.
- His favorite novel is Dostoevsky’s ‘The Brother’s Karamazov’.
- He led the inter-party parliament prayer group for many years.
Very interesting stuff. What’s more interesting still is that I actually do feel the urge to pray for him, seriously this time. (something I’ve unfortunately been rather woeful at over the years, especially concerning politicians!) I think he will need all the support he can get from the Christian community, but if we pull together and encourage him, then great things are absolutely possible.
cheers,
James
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