Policy Horizons Canada, a government agency focused on strategic foresight, warns that by 2040, many Canadians may struggle to improve their lives and could even be worse off than their parents. The report highlights concerns such as rising costs for basic needs, increased mental health issues, and a growing demand for social services. Furthermore, the report predicts that some Canadians might resort to hunting, fishing, and foraging on public lands just to feed their families. With 2040 fast approaching, it’s urgent to pray for discernment and make decisions now that will secure a better future for our children and grandchildren. We must vote with a long-term perspective, considering the legacy we leave behind. As Proverbs 13:22 says, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.” Let’s choose wisely and pray fervently for Canada’s future.

Policy Horizon’s: Future Lives

Voting for the Future: A Wake-Up Call for Generational Impact

By Marilyn Byberg | National House of Prayer

Looking Beyond Today: Building a Legacy for 2040 and Beyond

In this eye-opening message, Marilyn Byberg calls Canadians to think deeply about how today’s political decisions will shape the future. Drawing from a recent report by Policy Horizons Canada, a federal government think tank focused on strategic foresight, she shares sobering projections about life by the year 2040.

The report warns that unless major policy shifts happen, many Canadians may no longer be able to afford basic needs like food, rent, and utilities. Mental health issues could rise sharply, and more citizens may be forced to turn to hunting, fishing, and foraging—not for sport, but survival. These are not far-off concerns—2040 is just 15 years away.

The Vital Role of Religious Organizations

Marilyn also highlights a troubling trend: a recommendation from a previous Standing Committee on Finance suggesting the removal of religion as a recognized charitable purpose under Canadian tax law. Yet religious organizations currently contribute over $67 billion annually in services that ease the burden on government infrastructure.

Removing their charitable status would not only weaken essential community support—it would directly impact the very social services the government will increasingly need.

“It doesn’t make sense to undermine groups that help build strong communities, especially when future demand for social services is expected to rise.”

A Call for Prophetic Voting

This message isn’t just about policy analysis—it’s a spiritual call to action. Marilyn challenges Canadian voters, especially Boomers, to look beyond their immediate interests and consider the generational impact of their vote.

“We can’t vote for what serves us now. We must vote to protect, bless, and secure a righteous future for our children and grandchildren.”

She prays that voters would see through the lens of eternity and legacy, quoting Proverbs 13:22:

“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children.”

Final Challenge

Marilyn closes with a heartfelt prayer that the Church would stand in the gap for future generations—not just with words, but with prayers, wisdom, and yes, their ballots.

“May our vote be a seed planted for legacy and eternal impact.”