Toronto Mayoral Race

Like it or not, the eyes of the world will be on Toronto as the October 27, 2014 mayoral election approaches. Over the course of the past few months, the mayor has had many critics and others who have appreciated what he has accomplished.

Thus far, there are multiple candidates who have paid their $200 to have their name placed on the ballot. The registered candidates are quite diverse and include a white supremacist, a high-school student and, of course, some well-known names including the current mayor.

During the next few months, we can expect to hear (and see) many ads advocating the various points of view and candidates. We will be exposed to “slur tactics,” and to “damage control.” No doubt some of the infamous videos of the current mayor will be repeatedly shown.

Through the years, I believed that I could listen to the news and receive unbiased reporting. However, that no longer seems to be the case as each radio, newspaper and television station seems to have favorite candidates. It is tough for the average citizen to know what the complete truth is. Additionally, we have come to expect that many politicians will lie to us. We also are aware that special interest groups help to elect officials and then expect to be repaid once those officials are in power. Is it any wonder that so many people do not bother to vote anymore?

As we look at possible candidates, we realize that each one is human. All have faults, foibles and weaknesses. All will face difficult challenges. We yearn for a time when Christ returns and takes up the reins of government in the coming Kingdom of God on earth. Perhaps now is a good time to read what that will be like. The booklet, The Gospel of the Kingdom (http://www.ucg.ca/booklets/gospel-of-the-kingdom/), describes the remarkable future we will experience then. It explains many prophecies about how the world will be then with good governance,  peace and prosperity.

Anthony Wasilkoff