I admit that neither Ali or I feel very politicised. I'm easily confused by the helter skelter of political opinions, and besides, quite frankly, highly opinionated people tend to make me withdraw! However, I'm taking steps to try and take my social responsibility and freedom to vote more seriously, as the General Election looms.

So, rather helpfully, this week in our Small Group we're going to look deeper into Politics and why (or whether) we should be bothered. I'm looking forward to hearing my friend's points of view on all this, as well as looking and applying 'Jesus attitudes' by looking at what the Bible has to say. This is what Small Group is about to me - doing real life together,with God and with each other.

So, this week, or next, why not take the opportunity to do the same with your Small Group.

 
 - Ask someone to lead a worship time. Perhaps use a big wall chart to write up every possible name for God you can think of. Then use 'You Are.....' prayers to proclaim together who God is, using all the names.
 
 - Read the bible together. Take a look at some 'Jesus values', and perhaps some passages that reveal the importance that 'justice' plays in Jesus' ministry.
 
 - Ask someone who knows a little about the various parties to prepare a balanced summary of what the parties stand for, and lead a moderate discussion. You probably won't all agree with each other, but it may help you to formulate, or shift, your opinions when you hear how others view things. Above all, be considerate and be humble!
 
 - Let this discussion wander into the 'Witness' part of your evening by asking the question 'what difference does this make to me as a I live out my faith'?

I love the fact that, as we are think about politics and justice, we are about to embark on 'The Noise' as a Church. It just seems right, and in some way makes a little more sense of Politics to me. I confess to feeling apprehensive about our upcoming Small Group discussion - in truth I can't get excited by it (which will confuse some) - but I'm an open book and willing to learn. I'm also encouraged by this quote which our Small Group leaders Pete & Karen sent us......

'I am confused which bible people are reading if they say that religion and politics don't mix' (Desmond Tutu)