We celebrated the anniversary of our independence from colonial rule recently. Unlike other years, this year, as a precursor to the celebrations there was a solidarity demonstration organized to demand reforms.

According to some it marred the celebrations, but for others it was a cry to save a nation mired in abuse of human rights, lack of freedom of speech and above all, bribery and corruption. It is as if instead of marching towards being a developed nation, we have regressed to the point where we are being tagged with some third world countries.

Sad, but there is hope yet for our beloved country! Does it not say in 2 Chronicles 7:14 –

 “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land?”

Now’s the favourable time to seek the Lord’s healing.

Once upon a time, a flock of doves, led by their King, flew in search of food.  They had flown afar and were tired, when one day, the smallest dove saw some rice scattered beneath a banyan tree – the doves landed and began to eat.

Suddenly a net fell over them and they were all trapped. Seeing a hunter approach, they desperately fluttered their wings but to no avail. The dove King had an idea and asked the doves to fly together. He said that there is Strength in Unity.

Together they flew up carrying the net with them. The hunter looked up astonished! They flew high over hills and valleys to a hill city of temples where there lived a faithful friend of the dove King. The mouse was startled by the loud noise of their approach, but recognized his friend. The dove king explained what had happened.

The mouse agreed to gnaw the net and first set free the King. The King insisted that he first free his subjects. The mouse understood the King’s feelings and complied with his wishes. He cut the net and one by one all the doves were freed including the Dove King!   They thanked the mouse and flew away together, united in their strength.

Let us today lead by example. As Christians we have been taught to follow Christ. Think what would Jesus have done given the current situation? “And they’ll know we are Christians by our love”. So today let there be a change and let it begin with us. Let’s go forward and love one another regardless of race, religion or creed. Let us say NO to segregation, racial and religious division and above all, let us show the powers that be, that we will not be discouraged. United as brothers and sisters, we shall overcome with the help of our Almighty Father!

“Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God:  the powers that be are ordained of God” – Rom. 13:1