Facing trials of life with godly attitude

‘I have told you this so that you will have peace by being united to me. The world will make you suffer. But be brave! I have defeated the world!’ ( John 16:33)

Introduction

Trials have been the common experience of humankind throughout history. These trials and storms speak powerfully to the human heart and reveals our broken, weak, sinful and frail nature as ordinary mortals. We all experience hardships, trials and troublesome circumstances in life. All these overwhelm, test, shake and sometimes erode our Christian faith unless we cling to truth - negative emotions, fear, doubts, long standing disappointment and hurts, ill – health, sudden death of a loved one, family difficulties, community and national afflictions and tragedies which perpetually leaves us in prolong sadness and misery because of years of seemingly unanswered prayers and expectations. Even when life sometimes seems to fall apart, we know through our Christian faith that God is in perfect control strengthening and guiding us in every step and changing our circumstances for good.

Why does God allow trials?

The Lord’s ways are totally beyond our ability to understand as human beings. Knowing that God has the ultimate powers can leave us wondering why He would allow our painfully tragic circumstances in life. Why does He allow us go through hard times? Sometimes, we Christians even assume that if we are following the Lord, our lives will be problem and trial free. But Jesus never promised His disciples lives of ease and comfort, but on the contrary told us to expect tribulations (John 16:33). Christ Himself was not exempted from afflictions and sorrows. He was called ‘a man of sorrow’ (Isaiah 53:3). The Lord uses hardships to achieve something good in our lives, but whether we experience these benefits or not depends upon our response.

What is Our attitude and behavior during trials?

Yes, trials and troubles are inevitable part of life, they pop up unexpectedly and come in all shapes and sizes. The question is what is our behavior and attitude when experiencing difficulty or pain? Do we grumble and complain or indulge in self-pity? Or do we get angry and blame others for our troubles? All these reactions lead to despair, frustration and misery. However, St. James presents a totally different perspective about suffering when he said: ‘Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials’ (James 1:2-6). He urges us not to merely delight in pain and be happy about suffering, but to assess our trials as an opportunity to receive the blessings God has promised us when we respond wisely.

Godly perspective for hard times

Dr. Charles Stanley suggests that knowing and determining the sources and causes of trial can help us understand the wise way to react – either is from the self, others, world, Satan or God. He enumerated some godly perspective for hard times in his article titled Wisdom for the trials of life in the InTouch Magazine of January 2012:

·         The Lord controls the timing and intensity of my trial.

·         He has specific purpose for allowing it.

·         It may yield something in me that I presently lack.

·         If I trust God with a joyful attitude, I will benefit from adversity.

·         Christ wants to demonstrate His ability to sustain me under great pressure.

·         He walks with me every step of the way.

·         Through the power of the Holy Spirit, I will come out of this trial victorious.[1]

Right attitude to embrace for the trials of life

ü  In difficult times, we must always remember that God will meet all our needs.

ü  During difficult times, we must learn to cling to the Lord’s promise that He is in complete control. We have certain Biblical assurances that help us endure even if we do not understand.

ü  We must understand God’s purpose for testing our faith and perfecting us. God teaches us through our mistakes.

ü  Cooperate with God’s goal. There are far bigger picture than what we are able to see, and God weaves circumstances together in beautiful ways.

ü  Trials are often necessary to draw us near to God. We can be confident in trials when we rest in the fact that Jesus is in complete control, and will work everything out for our good.

Conclusion

St. James tell us that the crown of life awaits those who persevere under trial. ‘Happy are those who remain faithful under trials, because when they succeed in passing such a test, they will receive as their reward the life which God has promised to those who love him.’ (James 1:12). Though Jesus said we would face troubles in life, He offered encouragement: The ultimate Victory is His, and He will work everything out for our good!

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre, Kaduna Nigeria 2012.

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[1] InTouch Magazine January 2012

MAKING A GRATITUDE LISTS THIS NEW YEAR

What kind of world do we live in? How do we progressively move forward in a world confronted by multiple contradictions of kidnappings, violence, massacre, trauma, devastation, family crisis, destitution, hunger and starvation? How do we survive in an angry, ungrateful and aggressive world? The answers lies not out there, but in ourselves. A wise man once remarked that a hostile person lives in a hostile world, while a loving person finds it a loving one. The choice is actually ours! Complete obedience is a choice to follow God regardless of the consequences. Seeing His will done is more important than our own comfort and personal ambition. The choice for the way to greatness and goodness is ours. Zane Grey, the prolific writer of western novels gives the recipe for greatness thus: ‘To bear up under loss; to fight the bitterness of defeat and the weakness of grief; to be victor over anger; to smile when tears are close; to resist disease and evil men and base instincts; to hate hate and love love; to go on when it would seem good to die; to look up with unquenchable faith in something ever about to be; That is what any man can do, and be great’.

Obviously, we all have dark times in our lives when we long for a little light to cheer us on our way. This is the light and brighter ray that this New Day and Year emits. As you wake up today, look out of the window gratefully and say to yourself, I am looking at a brand New Day and a brand New Year with a positively brand New mind. So be ever determined to make the most of it assuring yourself that God will give you grace and strength to sail through. Kathleen Gillium beautifully captures it thus: ‘Let our words be happy words of love and sympathy; let us speak of kindness and generosity. Do not let unpleasant things mar or spoil the day; we should then think carefully of what we are going to say. For words can wound and injure, or they can heal and bless – so let us try to cultivate the words of happiness’.[1]

As we begin a New Year in this great journey of Faith, trust is absolutely vital in our relationship with God. Therefore, I encourage you to follow the Lord and trust His Word. The Christian life rests on a firm foundation of God’s promises for today and for the future. We can trust everything that God said because His Word is truthful, faithful, loving and all powerful (Hebrews 4:12-13; Isaiah 40:11; Roman 8:28; John 3:16). The Lord always keep His promises.

·         Learn to rely on His faithfulness, and enjoy the peace and blessing that comes with trust in Him.

·         Let our greatest and most rewarding pursuit be intimacy with God, with hearts full of thanksgiving and demonstrated by thanks living.

·         Learn to fight life’s battles through intimate communion with the Lord.

·         Obey God and leave all consequences to Him

·         Learn to give testimony of God’s greatness and goodness as you tell your story and make your gratitude lists.

Note that Gratitude is the key word of this reflection. Genuine gratitude is a wonderful thing. It takes us into the courts of praise, and once inside, there is  something about beholding the one on the throne that puts a lot in perspective (Philippians 4:6).

So, Let us thank the Lord, praise the Lord, adore the Lord and glorify Him as never before (Psalm 105), this New Year because He is our provider and defender, and will always be no matter what. Though we live amidst doubts and uncertainties, trials and troubles, and at times wonder and question the reasons and causes for certain senseless tragedies in the world, we have every reason to praise and thank God always. So, I feel like thanking you Lord for: for today, for your care and providence, for love and life, for grace and favor, for family and friends, for children, young and old, for benefactors and benefactresses, for teachers and professors, for rain, sunshine, moon, stars, hills and valleys, thunder and lightning, for the gift of speech, sight and the sense to feel, hear, smell, and taste, for the air we breathe and the water we drink, for food and nourishment, for health and strength to work, for the sweet and bitter experiences of life, for joy and sorrows, for hopes and struggles, for tears and laughter, for light and darkness, for success and failure, for every little material and spiritual benefits, for every expression of love, for every act of helpfulness and for the things, which many take for granted. Thank you Lord for everything.

We may at the moment be feeling deserted or rejected by families and friends; we may be experiencing hardship and trials that can test and shake our faith unless we cling to the truth; let us be assured that we are never alone. God promised to be with us always (Hebrew 13:5). The sobering question for us is: What does God want me to do this New Year? God’s promised blessings are real. So following him in all things is the surest path to favor and spiritual growth. Recognizing His intimate presence will give us confidence in the midst of challenges and trials. So be joyful in your union with the Lord, and in all things give thanks to the Lord, rejoicing over all He plans to accomplish in your life this New Year. When God steps in and takes charge, all is well.

May this New Year be an opportunity for us to gracefully grow in the knowledge and intimacy with the Lord who is the Lord of the Universe and Master of every situation. Have a blessed 2013!

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre, Kaduna, Nigeria 2013

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[1] Francis Gay, the friendship Book, D.C Thomson & Co. Ltd, London, 1999.

NIGERIA @ 52: MATTERS ARISING

‘It seems to me we can never give up longing and wishing while we are still alive. There are certain things that are beautiful and good, and we must hunger after them’. George Elliot

Introduction

See how time flies! The time is here again for yet another celebration of our 52^nd Independence anniversary. The question is, is it a celebration or commiseration? Obviously, the times are not favorable and safe as we seem to be surrounded by doom, pain and regrets. Nigerians are painfully lamenting the state of terrorism and insecurity in the nation – Boko Haram menace, reckless violence in Jos, Maiduguri, Bauchi and other parts of the federation, terrible floods and heightened insecurity across the country. Our people are desperately asking; Is President Goodluck Jonathan really capable of taking the country out of the doldrums? Does he have the political will of solving the hydra-headed problems facing the country?

Painting a true scenario

Life to common Nigerians have become poor, miserable and rough. Everywhere you go in the length and breadth of our land you see pervasive poverty, institutional corruption, the vain superiority and supremacy of the ruling class leading to monopoly of high key positions, thus giving rise to a clique of wealthy and powerful rulers; you hear the cry of the oppressed deprived of justice; you see the fear of oppression and domination by the majority tribe and religion against the minorities; you also notice general cynicism regarding governance as a result of the growing gap between the rulers and the ruled, the rich and the poor, and lack of access to basic public services and social amenities.

Blame and Victim mentality

Admittedly, the President is trying and glaringly committed despite efforts of anti-democratic forces to sabotage him. However, all stakeholders must give him their support to turn things around and take the country to greater heights. It is all too easy, in this high-pressure and high-tension situation to be swept along with the tide of blaming, complaining and criticizing destructively. Apparently, our modern culture has become one of complaint, blame, criticism and non-responsibility. Everything is someone else’s fault. We commonly hear such statements as: ‘it is not my fault; I am not to blame; I am framed; I am not guilty; I am not responsible; they caused it’ etc. In fact, the blame and victim mentality has grown in popularity in our country in the last few decades. We always claim credit for victories won or goals achieved, but never easily as Nigerian people admit our faults and mistakes. Let us not be deceived; we must admit our sins and sincerely confess our need of God for the way forward.

Our Endowments and Matters arising

The Almighty Creator has shown our country great favor in no small measure. God has no doubt endowed us with all it takes (natural and human resources) to develop and be among the leading economies in the world, but we remain stagnated as a result of greed, carelessness, and recklessness by our leaders and people. Unfortunately, we have become a country of lost and untapped opportunities, potentials and lost dreams. We remain unchanged in our deceitful nature. What we essentially need now to forge ahead positively is attitudinal change and moral re-orientation, as William Jones (1842-1910) said: ‘The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter his life by altering his attitude of mind’. The Holy Bible has categorically said that two thousand years ago. The most important moment in our life is now. The best time is now, the best place is here. So let us begin something today with the help of God. For when God supports us, no one can defeat us as a nation. Let us collectively manage our resources, harness our potentials and maximize our God given gifts to make Nigeria great.

Special Prayer for Nigeria

Special friends and beloved countrymen and women, let us thank God with grateful hearts and reflect on our wishes and aspirations as Nigerian people as I invite you to join me in my prayerful wishes for Nigeria. This is my wish for Nigeria: Faith to believe in God’s promises; Humility to admit our faults and to confess our sins; Trust to keep faithful; Courage to be sincere, open and honest in the twists and turns of life; Strength to hold  on to what is good; Patience to accept the truth;  A change from bankruptcy to blessing; a change from burden to victory; Stamina to sustain our struggle for freedom and entrenchment of democracy; godly heart to leave heart prints of love, compassion, understanding, forgiveness and peace; Positive heart to worship God in thick and thin and to grow and live for the future, and the Grace to fear less and love more. O God, in failure and disappointment preserve our faith; In success please keep us humble; Help us as a people to choose to love rather than hate; to choose to build rather than destroy; to choose to persevere rather than quit; to choose to forgive rather than curse; to choose to live with honor and character rather than live in disgrace and shame; and to choose to pray rather than despair.

Our internal raging Battle and Choice

It is my believe that as a people we can learn from this beautiful native wisdom taken from the Irish get up and go 2011 Diary challenging us to the decisions and choices we make: A Grandfather from Cherokee Nation was talking with his grandson. ‘A fight is going on inside me’ he said to the boy. ‘It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves’. ‘One wolf is evil and ugly; he is anger, envy, greed, self pity, resentment, selfishness, inferiority, false pride, lies, guilt, arrogance and wars’. ‘The other wolf is beautiful and good; he is friendly, joyful, generous, peaceful, loving, humble, kind, just, compassion, forgiveness, and gratitude.’ ‘The same fight is going on inside you, and inside every human being.’ The grandson paused in deep reflection on what his grandfather has said’ then he asked, ‘Grandfather, which wolf will win the fight?’ The elder Cherokee replied: ‘the wolf that you feed.’

Fanning the embers of Hope

Yes, it seems we have been feeding the evil and ugly wolf in us and as a result our country is bedeviled by all manners of criminal activities, terrorism and anarchy. Now our hearts are troubled and we are having symptoms and experiencing signs of heart attack; our environment is polluted and we are feeling dizzy and experiencing shortness of breath; there are times when we are alone and feel deserted.  In fact, we are almost getting suffocated. Our people are fuming and blowing hot and our psychological tension is heightened. Now is the time to stand up as a people against the many factors inhibiting our spiritual and natural growth as a nation; now is the time to draw strength and encouragement from each other in order to fan the glowing embers of hope. God alone can respond to our deepest longings, aspirations, concerns, yearnings and give true meaning to our lives as a nation and people. Only in Him can we find direction and a sense of purpose.

Conclusion

Let me conclude with the appealing words of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria given in a Communiqué issued at the end of the Second Plenary Meeting of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), at Bishop Thomas Mcgetrick Pastoral Centre, Abakiliki, Ebonyi State from September 10 – 17, 2011: ‘During the Golden Jubilee of our Independence as a nation, we celebrated the labors of our past heroes which our national Anthem declares shall never be in vain. To this end, we call on our leaders to renew their vision for a greater Nigeria, and through good governance and honest labors, to ensure the building of a greater nation bound in freedom, peace and unity. This indeed is our challenge as a people. Let us not place regional and sectional interest far above our national affiliation, but give adequate support to the concept of nationalism and patriotism.

God bless Nigeria and Happy Independence Anniversary!

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola Director, Media Service Centre Kaduna, Nigeria 2012

THE HOLY NAMES OF GOD

‘The names of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.’ (Proverbs 18:10)

The study of the theme of the Holy names of God is an interesting and captivating one. Going through Scriptures we see God’s revelation of Himself through His names, and how God’s names reveal certain  characteristics which are disclosed only when His people enter an area of special need. This reflection is aimed at increasing our knowledge and appreciation of God through an understanding of some of His most Holy names in Scriptures. We truly come to know God only through the means by which He chooses to reveal Himself – Creation, the Scriptures, and through His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. During the Old Testament times, God revealed Himself through His various names until, of course we come to the final unfolding of Himself through Jesus Christ – the name by which we fully know God.

Generally speaking, Names are good and wonderful, and are much more than identity, because without name, you take away the uniqueness, dignity and importance of personalities. Daily we are reminded of the experiences, whether sweet or bitter that certain names evoke in our lives. While some names suggest tremendous beauty, others evoke fear. Call the name of Adolph Hitler, Saddam Hussien, Osama Bin Ladin, Idi Amin and Boko haram and everybody would shrink and shudder. But call the holy name of JESUS and people are happy, because the name suggests beauty, goodness, power, wonder, excellence and victory.  Jesus our Saviour came to bless, heal, and to save. He saved sinners, murderers, prostitutes, drug addicts, alcoholics and criminals. In his name we stand and carry on with our Christian mission, witness and testimony.

Like no other name, GOD holds a special place in the minds and cultures of people throughout the world. In God’s name there is power, wonder, strength, freedom, peace, transformation and healing. A name when used in the Bible, is not merely a designation; it is a definition. The names of God reveal characteristics about Him, and this should have special bearing and influence on our lives and character as we reflect upon them. It is because of lack of knowledge, says the Scripture, that God’s people are destroyed (Hosea 4:6). It is too important an issue to ignore or neglect as Christians. Think about it deeply. God’s holy names reveal His greatness, majesty, power, glory, grace and love for humankind. Disturbing and vexing questions and problems are insignificant when measured against the greatness of an omnipotent God.

Therefore, growing in God for us believers involves far more than just attending Church, tithing and listening to homilies. Many believers do all these and yet remain stagnant in their walk with God. So learning the truth about God is vital to a healthy walk with Him. We gain knowledge and understanding through spiritual instruction and reading of the Word of God. Yet simply listening to the truth and reading the Word of God without deep involvement, application and internalization of it is useless. It requires deep faith in action. St. James says, ‘For just as the body without the Spirit is dead, so also Faith without good works is dead’ ( James 2:26).

In this reflection, we shall focus our thoughts on only three Hebrew names for God found in the Bible that clearly reveal His nature and character – Elohim, Adonai and El-shaddai. We must discover and realize that our total well-being rest securely in the arms of the almighty Creator, the author of life, perfecter of our faith and the giver of salvation.

Primarily, God is first revealed and seen in Scripture in His capacity as Creator. This is an inescapable and irresistible truth. It occurs in the opening verse of the book of Genesis: ‘In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth’ (Genesis 1:1). The Hebrew name for God here is Elohim, and clearly points to the one who possesses all the divine powers. The fact that the Bible begins with the picture of an almighty Creator teaches that without the Creator, the universe and life is meaningless. So when we lose sight of God everything is lost, and we have no basis for life, meaning and purpose, and the world doesn’t just make any sense. The question is since God is our Elohim (the one who possesses all divine powers), why did He created us and what is our response to the Creator’s creation?

Second is Adonai. The literal meaning of the Hebrew name Adonai is ‘Lord and Master’. The word contains the thought of ownership, Lordship and divine authority. This is understood in the context of the text from (Isaiah 6:1-13). Due to the death of the godly king Uzziah a period of national darkness had settled upon Judah. In the midst of the crisis, however, Prophet Isaiah is given a vision of an eternal throne on which sits the Lord and Master of the Universe. From this vision Isaiah draws a good deal of comfort and courage, and moves forward into a powerful, prophetic ministry. ‘How true it is that sometimes we do not see God as Adonai (Lord and Master) until an earthly power has let us down’ said Selwyn Hughes.

Third is El-Shaddai. Although the meaning of the Hebrew name El-Shaddai is uncertain, the traditional interpretation is this: ‘God is sufficient’ or ‘God is enough’. When confronted by Sarai’s physical inability to produce a child, God steps in, takes charge of the situation, breathes fresh vitality into her being and announces and reveals Himself as El-Shaddai ‘God is sufficient’ or ‘God is enough’ and the strengthener and nourisher of His people (Genesis 17:1-16). This simply reveals to us the infinite resources of an Almighty God. God’s supply, we must know so immeasurably exceeds all human demands. Perhaps, you are caught up at this very moment in a situation which seems desperately hopeless and do not know where to turn? Hope is not completely lost. Turn to God with faith because He is your El-Shaddai, Elohim and Adonai, and His resources so infinitely exceed all your requirements. He can do for you infinitely much more than you can ever imagine or comprehend. With Him life takes on  a new and wondrous meaning. So call upon His name today, make Him your starting point in everything and place Him firmly at the centre of your life.

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre, Kaduna Nigeria 2012

Knowing God is Life’s Greatest Goal

‘Fools say to themselves, ‘There is no God.’ Psalm 14:1

Recently a friend of my tells his story: ‘I was walking in a crowded street when I saw a young man with an intriguing and captivating message boldly inscribed on his white T-shirt, which reads IT’S ALL ABOUT ME’. This declaration sounded like the motto of our modern world that has become destructively self-centred. However, for us Christians, the statement is simply not true. It is not all about us – IT IS ALL ABOUT GOD! There is in the heart of Christians every where a deepening  desire to know more and more of God. Knowing God is the greatest  goal we can have in life. Our knowledge and intimacy with Him should be our greatest and most rewarding pursuit. Once we put God where He belong at the centre of our life, then every other thing falls in place.

In his reflection book Every Day with Jesus, Selwyn Hughes reveals how one man wrote to him and said: ‘Something inside me longs to know more about my Creator. Can you show me how this hunger can be satisfied?’ I think he is not alone in this as there are multitude of Christians throughout the world who share this man’s feelings and hunger. I can tell you from experience that knowing God means you will be satisfied with an unsatisfied satisfaction.  Surely, when you bow low at God’s feet, you can stand straight before anything else and stand tallest. Humankind is made from dust, and we are totally dependent on God for our existence and survival. As Christians, our final allegiance is to God. We would think best when we think with God because He is more than a match for all that is against us. The profound sense of God’s presence can melt our hearts and uplift us. To know Him is the greatest goal a man or woman can have. This is the wisdom greater than any mind can measure. God is the God of the extraordinary, let not our attitudes limit His power and settle for the ordinary, when He desires to give us the extraordinary.

Flor McCarthy S.D.B tells a story in his book on Sunday and Holy Day Liturgies: Peter was forty years old and was a school principal. He was highly qualified and doing a good job. He had a happy marriage and enjoyed a generous portion of the so-called ‘good things of life’. Yet, this was the man who one day came to the master asking if he could talk to him. ‘There is something missing in my life and I don’t know what it is.’ Peter began. ‘I feel an emptiness inside me. When I started out I believed that if I achieved what I have achieved, I would be radiantly happy. But it hasn’t worked out like that. There is still something missing in my life, but I don’t know what it is.’ ‘You are a lucky man’ the master replied. ‘Lucky?’ How can you say such a thing? I feel so unhappy inside myself.’ Said Peter. ‘You are a lucky man because you are being called to something deeper’ the master answered. ‘Something deeper? What do you mean?’

‘Well from the material point of view your life has been very successful. You have achieved all the goals you have set yourself. As a result you slipped into a rut, a rut of contentment, and that is not good. Contentment – the total satisfaction of one’s material desires – kills off all spiritual striving… What you are really experiencing is hunger. ‘Hunger?’ said Peter. I don’t understand… You are experiencing spiritual hunger – the hunger for God – the hunger of the heart and of the spirit. To experience this hunger is blessing, not a misfortune. Only God can satisfy this hunger.

Today, we are connected with the rest of the world via the Facebook, Twitter, Texting, Internet, smart phones. All these gives us access to friends, family, work and the world. But the vital question is how well are we connected to God? What can of relationship do we have with our God? How much effort do we invest in connecting with God? We all have an association with God, whether it is acknowledged or not. It is a pity that majority of people in this world have no idea who their Creator is.

In conclusion, as human beings we generally desire a deep spiritual longing with God, and hunger for a peaceful and meaningful universe. But our life without God would be doomed to perpetual state of restlessness, anxiety, uncertainty and nervous disorders that are so common in the modern society. In his book, ‘God Has a Dream, a Vision of Hope for our Time’, Desmond Tutu, Archbishop Emeritus of Cape Town, South Africa tells a story of a Priest in Russia who was accosted by a brash young Physicist who had every reason for atheism and arrogantly concluded; “Therefore, I do not believe in God.” Oh, it doesn’t matter. God believes in you!” the priest replied. Yes, we are uniquely important and God does believe in us, and relies on us to help make the world a better place to live. We desperately need Him and we must remain connected to Him to transform the world. Life is all about God. Knowing and enjoying Him is our greatest goal. Enjoy God today!

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre Kaduna Nigeria, 2012

Violence and repression in our Country

‘We looked for peace, but no good came, for a time of healing, but behold terror. We acknowledge our wickedness, O Lord, and the iniquity of our fathers, for we have sinned against you.’ Jeremiah 14:19-20

Introduction

The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has relentlessly spoken out more and more against violence and repression in our country. At the National Catholic Prayer Pilgrimage for Nigeria in Abuja held from June 1^st – 2^nd 2012, the Speaker Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Anthony J. V. Obinna states: ‘In asking me to address you and our nation on the Challenge of Reconciliation, Forgiveness and Peace, the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria, with whose mandate I speak, really stand publicly before God on behalf of Nigeria with the look of shame, but in the spirit of humility and repentance for all the blood of fellow Nigerians, needlessly shed in this country ever since we were bonded together as Nigerians. … For all our iniquities, past and present, hidden or known, we hereby ask for God’s compassion and forgiveness’. [1]

Yes, war causes evil and never causes good. War and violence around the globe kill millions every day. It is a really staggering and disturbing reality which doesn’t have to be so because we - kings and commoners have the power to change this if we become genuinely concerned and committed for peace. Therefore, everyone must do what  they can do to avoid and prevent it. Pope Benedict XVI in His Message with regards to the 14^th World Day of the Sick  draws our attention to the challenges these problems present: ‘To the psychological unrest that affects today a fifth of all humanity and that has become a real crisis for man’s social wellbeing.’ With regards to the causes of the unrest he states: ‘The ongoing wars in different parts of the world, the continuous appalling natural disasters and the spreading of terrorism as well as causing a terrifying number of deaths, have produced in many of survivors psychological traumas from which any recovery seems now impossible… In the more economically advanced countries the specialists recognize also as a cause to this unrest the negative influence of the loss of moral values.’

Some Events following the December 2011 Madalla tragedy

The months following December 2011, since the Christmas Day Madalla Bomb blast tragedy at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church in Niger State killing many and wounding several others had been disturbing and tragic in the History of Nigeria. We are passing through most critical crisis in recent times. Boko Haram insurgency emerged and fear, suspicion, mistrust and misery swept the whole country like a wild fire. Boko haram problem reared its ugly head in a big way raking havoc and creating massive destruction of lives and property; thousands of people died; so many are fleeing to escape massacre and persecution; we also experienced within these months the Post Election and Oil Subsidy Crisis which claimed many lives of our innocent citizens; and the recent is the Dana plane crash national tragedy where so many innocent lives perished. It is a disturbing scenario and our people have become desperate. It would be impossible to sum up the problems of our country at the moment, but some of the challenges are visibly obvious - insecurity, ethnic and religious strife, food and energy shortages,  economic development and poverty eradication,  human rights abuse, the horrors of Boko Haram, blind violence, repression and terrorism. In fact, the doom and gloom of Boko haram is spreading its dark shadow across the federation. The horrible experiences we have had are extremely touching, painful and agonizing. Indeed, this is a moment of sorrow for us and our hearts are heavy over the sad events.

Endless tales of woes, blood bath and reprisal attacks

The whole experience is painful and much too traumatic to capture in a brief piece such as this. Recent events of the gruesome terrorists attack in our nation, and the increasing wave of socio-political and ethno-religious crisis threatening our national security and corporate existence lately calls for serious attention and deep prayer for our innocent citizens. This string of attacks across the country with particular reference to the North, has assumed higher dimension witnessing spates of bombings, kidnappings, assassinations, abductions, gun attacks on key point and strategic areas of interest – Military formations, Churches, Schools, Market places, Banks and private residences by unidentified gun men on motor cycles, who trail their victims to attack and inflict serious injuries on them. The recent is the Sunday June 11, 2012 triple Bomb attacks of three Churches in Trikania and Zaria all in Kaduna State carried out by Islamist militant sect of Boko haram and the reprisal attacks which left many dead and property destroyed. Boko haram struck and left on its heels pains, misery, questions upon questions. A twenty four hour curfew was imposed by the Kaduna State government to prevent further attacks and destruction. But wait a minute! How long shall we continue with this endless tales of carnage, blood bath and reprisal attacks? How long shall the rioters in counter reprisals and attacks continue to defy the 24 hours curfew imposed by the State government?

Sharing together our fears, dreams, struggles and hopes

Following the relaxation of the curfew by four hours on Friday, from 12 noon to 4.00pm to enable the Moslem Brethren fulfill their obligation of Friday Congregational Worship, People in Kaduna Metropolis who have been under a general detention and house arrest for three days were seen rushing to the market to replenish their foodstuff and other domestic essentials. Christians were seen buying from moslems, and moslems from Christians such perishable items like tomatoes, pepper, onion, vegetable, banana, garden - egg and plantain without discrimination, and sharing together their mutual fears, dreams, aspirations, struggles and hope. What in the first place would have spark off this tension and senseless attacks that led to our brothers and sisters being butchered and allowed to rot in the gutters, they questioned? ‘This is really horrible!’ said an observer as all hurried to scamper away to avoid any possible spiraling violence still lurking around. This feeling of separation leaves us miserable and unhappy.

Conclusion

Ignorance I think accounts for this callousness and recklessness. No religion preaches hate, but some religious leaders do. They interpret Holy Books to proclaim their ignorance as faith and doctrine. Hate preachers who preach bloodletting to stir up trouble leading to disaffection should be carefully identified, closely monitored and prosecuted for inciting trouble. I appeal to all of us citizens (educated and uneducated, rich and poor, lowly and great), religious leaders (Christians and Moslems), politicians, and journalists to stand united with one voice to call a spade and spade, name injustice wherever we see it, condemn violence and rid Nigeria of all unscrupulous and anti - democratic elements. We must stay and live with each other as a people, and try to protect each other from our common enemies. We must stand united to speak out more and more powerfully against violence and repression even if it will inevitably bring us under criticism and outright persecution.

Remember, we are social beings and cannot live harmoniously except in relation to others. Selwyn Hughes tells his story thus: A woman wrote to me some years ago and said: ‘I  am at the point where I can get along without people.’ She finished her letter by pleading: ‘Please send me an encouraging word.’ What she needed was not encouragement but exhortation – exhortation to get back in relationship with someone[2]. So, let us reason together and get back in right relationship with one another to make Nigeria great. We must understand that we have a mutual obligation to work for peace and promote each other’s joy, happiness and welfare.

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director media Service Centre, Kaduna Nigeria

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[1] Anthony J.V. Obinna, Reconciliation, Forgiveness and Peace, Building a New Nigeria, 2012

[2] Selwyn Hughes, Everyday with Jesus September/October 1994.

NIGERIA UNDER TERROR ATTACK

‘A good portion of the evils that afflict mankind is due to the erroneous belief that life can be made secure by violence’ – LEO TOLSTOY

Introduction

It would be impossible to sum up the problems and troubles of Nigeria, but some of the challenges are glaringly obvious – insecurity, ethnic and religious strife, food and energy shortages, air pollution and deforestation, economic development and poverty eradication,  human rights, democracy and good governance, environmental sustainability and the horrors of Boko Haram, blind violence and terrorism. But despite our poverty,  struggles and hardships, challenges and injustice, we must remain positive and determined to create a better and brighter future for our land. All of us citizens, religious leaders, politicians, and journalists are stakeholders in this collective efforts to make Nigeria great.

Recent events of terror attacks in Nigeria

Peace has always been one of humanity’s basic needs, yet hatred and violence seems to stifle this fundamental necessity. The vicious circle of conflict and warfare, attack and counter attack, strike and counter strike are breeding hatred, resentment and bitterness among our people, and tragically has caused many to weep, suffer and die in many parts of the world. Recent events of the gruesome terrorists attack in our nation, and the increasing wave of socio-political and ethno-religious crisis threatening our national security and corporate existence lately calls for serious attention and deep prayer for our innocent citizens. This string of attacks across the country with particular reference to the North, has assumed higher dimension witnessing spates of bombings, kidnappings, assassinations, abductions, gun attacks on key point and strategic areas of interest – Military formations, Churches, Schools, Market places, Banks and private residences by unidentified gun men on motor cycles, who trail their victims to attack and inflict serious injuries on them. These sad and ugly events bear witness to the painful chapter in the history of Nigeria in our times.

Sad Consequences of terrorism

Hundreds of people have been killed and more than a million have fled their homes because of Boko Haram insurgency. Many who have fled attacks from the North are now displaced refugees trying hard to settle in different parts of the federation. You practically know as well as I do that one of the most difficult things to do is relocate or change a place. Change in itself is endless, timeless and yet very engaging. Boko Haram attacks brings this point poignantly as it struck like a thunder lightening leaving behind pains, misery, fear, questions and questions.

Views of Some Prominent Leaders

In his January 9, 2012 address to the members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See, Pope Benedict XVI said: ‘In many countries Christians are deprived of fundamental rights and sidelined from public life; in other countries they endure violent attacks against their Churches and their homes. At times they are forced to leave the countries they have helped to build because of persistent tensions and policies which frequently relegate them to being second-class spectators of national life. In other parts of the world, we see policies aimed at marginalizing the role of religion in the life of society, as if it were a cause of intolerance rather than a valued contribution to education in respect for human dignity, justice and peace. In the past year religiously motivated terrorism has also reaped numerous victims, especially in Asia and Africa; for this reason, as I stated in Assisi, religious leaders need to repeat firmly that ‘this is not the true nature of religion. It is the antithesis of religion and contributes to its destruction’.[1]

Similarly, the Niger State Governor and Chairman of the Northern Nigeria Governors Forum, Babangida Aliyu at their just concluded meeting in Kaduna was compelled by recent events in the country to also lament: ‘It was unfortunate that insecurity has not abated; rather it is worsening and attaining very alarming dimension, with attendant negative implications for economic growth, development and image of the nation. Nigeria is passing through a very difficult phase in the history of the nation, a period that put our patriotism, nationalism, sincerity and responsibility collectively to test. This is the period that we have demonstrated individually and collectively our abiding faith in our nation, when we must confront the common enemies of the nation, those who are sworn to destroying the spirit of nationhood through wanton destruction of lives and property’.[2]

Again in a Teleconference with reporters on Wednesday May 16, 2012, the United States Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Ambassador Johnnie Carson explained that there is no end to Boko Haram without tackling poverty. ‘but with respect to Boko Haram, we have also said very clearly that we see the solution to this problem as both a security and socio-economic issue. There has to be a sound socio-economic strategy to address the enormous poverty which exists in Northern Nigeria. Both have to go hand in hand; and so we are willing and open to help Nigeria to deal with this domestic threat and recognize the seriousness of it; but again as I say, it requires a security strategy as well as a socio-economic strategy to ultimately resolve it.[3]

Efforts of Security Agents

Though our atmosphere at the moment is beclouded by apprehension, fear and  mutual suspicion as a result of this sectarian conflict inflamed by Boko Haram insurgency especially in the North, the presence of Security agents who themselves seem to be under pressure and over stretched is helping to calm our fears. They are kept on street alert at various check points under rain and sunshine, day and night to keep surveillance and help prevent further brutal attacks of suicide bombers. Although I salute and commend their efforts so far, more concerted effort is needed for their training and retraining to boost their capacity for intelligence gathering, crime detection, and exploration of new ways to counter terrorism. The Daily Trust of May 17, 2012 reported how the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Kogi State led by Lt. Col. Gabriel Olorufemi uncovered Explosive Devices and other arms and ammunitions in the State. The weapons were buried in the ground in a thick forest in the border between Okenwe end of Kogi State and Igara end of Edo State. Items recovered were one Berreta pistol, two revolver pistols, one sub machine gun, one sub magazine, 10 AK 47 raffles, 57 AK magazines, 545 live ammunitions, 55 rounds of MM-pistol rounds; 4 magazine waste belts, 14 units of locally made hand grenades, 8 anti-tank Improvised Explosives Devices (IEDs), one firing cable, three 9 volts power source and one jeep.[4] This is highly commendable.

Our apathy and Complacency as a people

In our today’s world, impatience is all too common a trait. We want food, help, information, promotion, justice, growth and peace fast. Increasingly, we grow disappointed and frustrated when thing don’t go according to plan. Yet the almighty God specializes in slow, steady work to change us and transform our country. He is more interested in a quality outcome than a speedy process. It is a pity that the Nigerian people though religious have become apathetic and complacent about spiritual things, and our failure to apply Biblical and Koranic truths has caused many reckless death and wanton destruction of property. We seem to move through life thoughtlessly and recklessly reacting to national situation, yet never learning from them, but instead subtly fanning the embers of division and disaffection through religiously motivated terrorism. We must remember that life cannot be made secured by violence.

Conclusion

I conclude and concur with the words of the Rt. Rev. Richard Harries who said on BBC Radio September 2004 that: ‘It is not always possible to be optimistic about the world, and certainly it is very difficult now. But even if you are not optimistic, some words of Vaclav Havel remain true. He wrote: ‘Hope is not the expectation that things will turn out successfully, but the conviction that something is worth working for, however it turns out’. So I remain absolutely convinced that the problem of our era, such as fear of war, terrorism and all forms of violence should inspire us to live in greater conformity to our religious and democratic value, to pave a way for the beginning of an unprecedented period of both political and economic progress for Nigeria.

As a nation with enormous promise and potentials, we must unite to harness our potentials to help our people improve their livelihood, and social status through empowerment programs of education and skills acquisition, and by encouraging them to take part as stakeholders in community and national decisions, while working for the promotion of equal rights in our present democratic setting.

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director, Media Service Centre Kaduna Nigeria,

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[1] Messenger of St. Anthony Magazine, March 2012 edition.

[2] THE NATION, May 18, 2012

[3] THE NATION, May 18, 2012

[4] Daily Trust, May 17, 2012

A LIVING HOPE AND PROMISE OF THE RESURRECTION

‘I am the resurrection and the life, he who believes in me though he dies, yet shall he live’ (John 11:25)

Introduction

Naturally, just as we are usually very aware of the physical realities and happenings around us – the seasons, the weather, the political climate, social events, our relationships and our physical health; So too we must not neglect our spiritual lives and environment in our struggle to read and understand the signs of our times, in order to respond positively to God as we deepen our relationship with the Lord.

Dear readers, the horrific happenings and brutal realities of our world saddens me and makes me feel quite helpless. The deepest and darkest experience of hostility and violence around the globe over the last couple of months makes my palms sweaty and stomach churn when I imagine admitting and accepting it as a Christian. Everyone seems to know what is wrong but without respite and solutions. Evil and wickedness seem to overwhelm us and make us powerless and helpless; even so as Christians we believe that God’s goodness is stronger and bigger than evil.

Trapped in Hostilities

Sadly trapped in these violent hostilities, we have been experiencing deepening crises in parts of Plateau, Kaduna, Niger, Bauchi, Borno, Adamawa, Taraba, Kano and Sokoto States; bomb explosions in Madalla, Suleja, Maiduguri, Mubi, Kaduna, Kano, and most recently in Jos at St. Finbarr’s Catholic Church, Rayfield seem to be unfortunately a direct attack on Christians in particular, and our innocent citizens in general. The Militant and extremist Islamic group (Boko Haram) have been responsible for a string of violent attacks and bloody suicidal mission that have killed more than one thousand people, maimed others, impaired the health of many and leaving our citizens living in fear for their lives over the last two years. It seems Boko Haram has become a cover for criminal activities and political thuggery of all sorts. We notice that anything that turns violent now in Nigeria can be easily blamed on them whether it has link to it or not. Now that the whole world seem to be dying and our nation seem to be collapsing; We must unite to fight the scourge of terrorism and kidnapping which can never be justified in anyway. The Nigerian people in particular are growing sick, wearied and tired of this endless cycle of intimidation, human rights abuse and repression which is growing by the day because it has been left to fester for too long. Yet in the midst of such gloomy thoughts and hopeless feeling; in the midst of this depressing scenario, the Church offers another vision to her people – a living hope and promise of the resurrection.

God’s great and precious promises

Though the times are difficult, rough and tough, but they are also times of great promise. God is ever faithful and His promises for us is an unshakable pledge of love and blessing. His promise reveal His intention to fill us with his life.

·         St. Paul wrote that God ‘destined us to be His sons and daughters through Jesus Christ’ (Ephesians 1:5). He desires that we be with Him in heaven forever.

·         St. John wrote: ‘this is the will of my father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.’ (John 6:40).

·         The gospel of Luke states: ‘Fear not little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12:32).

·         St. Peter wrote: ‘You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people.’ (1 Peter 2:9).

·         The gospel of John states: ‘He who hears my word and believes Him who sent me, has eternal life; he does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.’ (John 5:24).

·         The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: ‘Through His divine gift of hope, we place our trust in Christ’s promises and rely not on our own strength, but on the help of the grace of the Holy Spirit’. (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1817). Therefore, our lives can only be secure when they are rooted in God’s promise of eternal life – that is our Christian hope!

The Resurrection of Christ is the crowning truth of our Christian faith

The resurrection of Jesus from the dead is the crowning truth of our faith. It is the central truth upon which our faith in Christ is founded, and by which it is lived. This is what we celebrate at Easter which is a perfect time that invites us to embrace the new life from Christ. We must continue to rejoice in the life we have received from our loving God, and be filled with expectant hope that triumph over the fear of death. In fact, nothing gives us greater hope or peace than the Holy Spirit opening our hearts to God whose plans for us are wonderfully and unimaginably good. So we affirm that we are a resurrection people and alleluia is our song! Our hope in the resurrection is firm because it rests on the fact of Jesus’ resurrection. St. Paul wrote: ‘If Christ has not been raised… your faith is in vain.’ (1 Corinthians 15:14). As we allow the Holy Spirit to fill us with Jesus’ mercy and love, the fear of death will be broken, and we will experience great confidence in the Lord, because we trust that our lives are hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3-4).

For us Believers, the prospect of the end of the world or the end of our lives is meant to fill us with hope and expectations because we have been redeemed by Christ. Jesus Christ told His disciples that even in the midst of the most tumultuous events, His followers should be able to look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near. (Luke 21:28).

Fruits of the Redemption accomplished by the Resurrection of Christ

The resurrection story is very striking and powerful. It is a miracle! Do you know the power and hope of the resurrection? Do you know that God loves you and wants you to be with Him forever? In His desire to bring us fully into His presence, God has bestowed upon us a great dignity – nothing, not even sin or death can triumph over God’s purposes. Jesus is risen and has conquered death. Death no longer has dominion over Him, nor over us (Romans 6:9). He invites all of us to live with Him forever in heaven. The power of the resurrection is ours now! Jesus assures us that we can experience joy, even in the midst of trials. Every day St. Paul knew God’s presence and so rejoiced in the life Jesus had won for him. Even when he was in prison with the threat of execution hanging over him, Paul knew the joy of a life – changing relationship with Jesus (Philippians 1:19-26). So, some of the fruits of redemption accomplished by Christ death on the cross and glorious resurrection are:

ü  Through Christ we achieve freedom from sin and so experience joy, peace and blessing

ü  He makes us partners in His heavenly glorification

ü  Through Christ we achieve Joyous prospect of eternal life

ü  Healing of wounded relationships

ü  Physical healing

ü  The joy of a victorious Christian life

ü  Through Christ the fear of death fades and melts away

Conclusion

Death is the ultimate enemy of every human being. It defeats us all. Jesus was the only one who conquered it. Just as the Father raised Jesus from the dead, so we too will rise again. Our helplessness as mortal human beings will let God demonstrate His power on our behalf in all things. So, today we can choose to live for Jesus. Today we can serve God wholeheartedly and celebrate Christ victory over sin and death because the power of the resurrection is ours now! God will enable us rise above circumstances. No outer hell can undermine the certainty of heaven which God has given us. Remember, It is not the circumstances but the ‘innerstances’ with God that determines our life.

Happy Easter to everyone!

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre Kaduna, Nigeria 2012