Welllll, we already have. This is a longggg awaited LATE post- peremisi (excuse me). However, blessing in disguise for ya’ll; God’s timing is perfect right? By being held back in posting this, I’ve had so much time to reflect & look over everything from different perspectives- biblical & non-biblical; and have been able to take a step back to remember & understand the bigger picture at play here. I pray it will deepen your understanding of the world we live in from a Christian perspective, and fill you with peace, hope & joy- for everything that is to play out is all written by the Alpha & the Omega, the beginning and the end. And these things must come to pass. Enjoy!
“Next week from the 7th-12th of July I’ll be representing the Central Wheatbelt on the Police & Justice Committee for Youth Parliament 2024. How did I end up here you ask? It can only be God... I literally had absolutely no interest in politics before moving up to South Hedland. Like zero. Nek minute / 10 weeks later I’m prepping for Parliament ha! I’m just like use me as a vessel Lord... if this is where you want me, let’s go! So there I was looking up Labour, Liberal, what is left-wing politics, what is right-wing politics… All the glory and praise to Him, because evidently it was not by my own wisdom or understanding that I got here.
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” Proverbs 31: 8-9
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Over the past few months we have learnt how to amend legislation & write bills, in preparation for debating them inside State Parliament where the Governor, Premier, Minister of Opposition and other members of Parliament will be present. Since moving up to South Hedland and stepping into this full-time role as a community engagements officer for Julyardi Aboriginal Corporation, I came to learn how much policy, procedure & government legislation play a pivotal role in making change happen to benefit local communities. If we actually want to make change happen, we kinda gotta get political.
The bill our Police & Justice committee has been working on, essentially looks at amending the Prison Act of 1981... changing the prison system to the likes of the Norway & Scandinavia models where prisons are focused on rehabilitation & re integration into society, instead of the current mindset of punishment & really, dehumanisation. Since Norway implemented this new model of rehabilitation & re-integration into society; recidivism rates dropped 50%. From 70% recidivism (prisoners that re-offend after their initial time in prison) to 20%. Australia’s prison systems are failing. And overflowing. We need another approach. A more compassionate one... We are also trying to implement community-led diversion programs into the Young Offenders Act of 1994, so that Juveniles can avoid going straight into the justice system & Banksia Hill / Don Dale, and instead be shepherded through ‘On Country’ programs & community projects. It costs taxpayers $800,000 per juvenile detainee per year... you don’t have to be a genius to know that that’s a serious misuse of funds. How much does it cost to manage a young person in community? $47,000 per year. I had no idea about the injustice that both kids & adults face within the ‘justice system’.
I had the opportunity to speak with Gerry Georgatos who’s worked in the social justice and human rights space for the past 20 years across Australia’s youth detention centres. A prison reform has been pleaded for for way too long now. Peter Abetz, WA director for the Australian Christian Lobby, has been a major help & guidance in this journey as well.
“The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” Proverbs 4:7
There’s a really insightful documentary called ‘Incarceration Nation’ that gave me a lot of perspective & insight into the inside of some of our prisons. Also a lot of heartache! When looking at the legislation, you can see how it allows, even encourages the unnecessary use of force & other vile things that honestly your just like, are you kidding? Recommended watch.
Food for thought: politics is spiritual.
Who is the ruler of this world? Who has been given power & authority for a time to rule the kingdoms of this earth?
“The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendour; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. If you worship me, it will all be yours.” Luke 4:6
Politics is a breeding ground for control, power, money & pride. However, as Christians we are urged to fight for justice and walk in righteousness, for that is who our God is.
“Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Mercy and truth go before Your face.” Psalms 89:14
We should not let menial topics & who we voted for cause division among us. For in the face of eternity, all that matters is whether you are saved or unsaved. Whether you are a part of the kingdom of darkness or the kingdom of light. Whether you have chosen to follow God, or unbeknown to you, the devil himself.
‘The kingdom of darkness and the kingdom of light are opposed to each other and forever at war. When we receive Jesus Christ as our personal Saviour, God transfers us from the Kingdom of Darkness into the Kingdom of Light, the kingdom of His beloved Son. The two kingdoms are complete opposites, and just as turning on a light in a dark room will overcome darkness, so the kingdom of God will overcome the power of darkness.’ - Church of Christ, Hugh de Long
Makes sense why we see so much corruption & evil hey?
“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Ephesians 6:12
“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” John 16:33
Jesus has overcome the world.
We can get so caught up trying to save the world ourselves.
We already have a Saviour, and that man is Jesus Christ.
This definitely does not mean that we sit back & do nothing, turning a blind eye to injustice & wrongdoing in the world. No. We are to be obedient to what the Lord has called us into, and walk in His righteousness as best as we can, seeking to help & serve others. “What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” James 2:14-17
Nyamal country, Marble bar way.
A local Pilbara band that played at the HCLA Country Gala. They didn’t have a name yet!
THE KINGDOM OF GOD, VS EARTHLY KINGDOMS.
*This next section is all written by Bible Hub. Praise the Lord.
The concept of the Kingdom of God stands in stark contrast to earthly kingdoms throughout the biblical narrative. This contrast is evident in the nature, governance, and values of God's Kingdom compared to those of human institutions.
Nature of the Kingdom
Earthly kingdoms are characterized by temporal power, territorial boundaries, and human leadership. They rise and fall, often marked by conflict, conquest, and political maneuvering. In contrast, the Kingdom of God is eternal and spiritual. Jesus declared, "My kingdom is not of this world" (John 18:36), emphasizing its divine origin and nature. Unlike earthly realms, the Kingdom of God transcends geographical and political boundaries, existing wherever God's will is done.
Governance
Earthly kingdoms are governed by human rulers who wield authority through political structures and military might. These rulers are often subject to corruption, ambition, and the limitations of human wisdom. In contrast, the Kingdom of God is ruled by God Himself, with Jesus Christ as the King. Isaiah prophesied, "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders" (Isaiah 9:6). This governance is marked by righteousness, justice, and peace, as God exercises perfect wisdom and authority.
Values
The values of earthly kingdoms often reflect human desires for power, wealth, and status. These kingdoms prioritize self-interest, competition, and dominance. In contrast, the Kingdom of God is characterized by values such as humility, service, and love. Jesus taught, "Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave" (Matthew 20:26-27). The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12) further illustrate the values of God's Kingdom, highlighting the blessedness of the poor in spirit, the meek, and the peacemakers.
Citizenship
Citizenship in earthly kingdoms is typically determined by birth, nationality, or legal status. In contrast, citizenship in the Kingdom of God is granted through spiritual rebirth and faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus told Nicodemus, "Truly, truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again" (John 3:3). This spiritual citizenship transcends earthly affiliations and is marked by a transformed life aligned with God's will.
Security and Permanence
Earthly kingdoms are inherently unstable, subject to change through war, revolution, or decay. The Bible acknowledges this transience, as seen in Daniel's interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, where successive kingdoms are depicted as temporary (Daniel 2:31-45). In contrast, the Kingdom of God is unshakeable and eternal. Hebrews 12:28 states, "Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be filled with gratitude." This assurance provides believers with hope and confidence in the enduring nature of God's reign.
Mission and Expansion
Earthly kingdoms often expand through conquest and colonization, imposing their culture and governance on others. The Kingdom of God, however, expands through the proclamation of the Gospel and the transformative work of the Holy Spirit. Jesus commissioned His followers, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15). This mission is not one of coercion but of invitation, calling individuals to voluntarily submit to God's rule and experience His grace.
In summary, the Kingdom of God presents a radical departure from the principles and practices of earthly kingdoms. It offers a vision of divine governance, eternal values, and spiritual citizenship that challenges believers to live according to God's higher standards.
I pray that this article gives you hope, guidance, clarity, direction & a deep peace that transcends all understanding. For Jesus is the Prince of Peace… big love and thanks for reading xx