Dear Editor:

We have celebrated twenty-five (25) years of Nationhood - that celebration has left nationals and visitors alike very high spirited – charged to move forward. God has begun a new chapter with us and He stands ready to stamp every page in this chapter of existence.

The onus is upon us to make ourselves available to Him for His seed of purpose to germinate. This turning over of self and will, will indicate that one is nothing in the true sense of nothingness. He has no sense, abilities or other aptitude, and there is total dependency upon God for His supplies from His reservoir for aliveness.

Assuming this position before the Almighty opens the door for gifts from above that are not only innumerable but immutable to the recipient’s amazement. Case in point is that of Solomon in response to the new chapter in his life; he said, “You have showed unto your servant David my father great mercy, according as he walked before you in truth and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with you, and you have kept for him this great kindness, that you have given him a son to sit on his throne as it is this day. And now, O Lord my God, you have made me your servant king instead of David my father and I am but a little child; I know not how to go out or come in. And your servant is in the middle of your people, which you have chosen, a great people that cannot be numbered nor counted for multitude. Give therefore your servant an understanding heart to judge your people that I may discern between good and bad: for who is able to judge this ‘[your great number of people]’” (I King. 3:3-9).

For such humility Solomon received what he asked for including, wealth, wisdom, understanding and numerous talents that none before or after him will receive. It is understood then that God will bless us with His supplies, enough to fulfill His mapped out task.

Our lives have been spared in spite of all that have come our way - earthquakes, hurricanes, economic hardships, crimes and violence and a host of other negatives. This was not by our might, but by His omnipotence. There was never a dull moment for Him over the twenty-five years. Oh yes, we have had our melancholy times, real ups and downs, but through it all we are in this new chapter and have experienced a few pages already.

As a God-fearing nation that puts God first, we have to show our gratitude for His benevolence, as a “nation under God.” I humbly suggest that our leaders of the country, those of the church, the homes and the school exercise their authority based upon the dictates of Godly conscience. This is what is expected to display the decorum which reflects kingdom Statehood (see Romans 13:1-7). The church was built on Christ the Rock of which the gates of Hell will not prevail (Matt. 16:18). The home is the place where discipline and obedience must be exercised (see Luke 2:41-52) and the school is to inform what is taught at home and the church, as well as its own curriculum of academic subjects.

This should be the endeavour for a healthy and prosperous people. Let us then as we live this chapter, be each other’s keepers in our behaviour, our conduct and our attitude. Let whatever that was untoward hitherto, and all that we do bring honour and glory to our Master’s name.

This means that we would each occupy our space, respecting one another’s freedom, and work hard for an honest reward. We should worship our God through Christ, unctioned by the Holy Spirit, and we should love life, and live life. We should obey the laws of our land, love one another, treat our guests well, eat well and recreate and rest well.

We have not already arrived, while still living Paul penned these words “I do not claim that I have already succeeded or have already become perfect. I keep striving to win the prize for which Christ Jesus has already won me to Himself” (Phil. 3:12).

As believers we cannot stop believing in Christ or fail to worship. This seems to be the attitude displayed by those of us who have attained economic success. At this stage we shed off God because we are “well off now.” For our behavioural changes and much of what we do or say do not reflect Christ like principles and values. Oh yes we swim farther and farther away from God. The hymn writer says, “He became a fugitive from God.”

No one can feel complete in this state; and if one was real close and had a personal experience it will not take long before he realizes that an integral part of His life is missing, the absence of Christ.

All that is required is a right about turn; it is never too late to turn back. Do not be like the person who blames others and not himself for where he is. Drivers in Grand Rapids, Michigan were asked about the bad habits of driving that made the highways unsafe. Most of them felt that others caused more problems than they did. One driver however said that, “She talked on her cell phone a little, but at least she did not dial the phone numbers while on the road.” It is said that she concluded her comments by saying that, “Others are not following the rules of the road … they put us all at risk.”

Only you would know if you can be identified with this type of finger pointing but we all are full of guilt. Paul says “those who measure themselves by themselves are not wise” (2 Cor. 10:12).

The time is right now! For that change, seek God’s face in prayer and humility so that we can experience His compassion, mercy and love.

These are the necessities that result in a God-fearing nation and truly reflect the kingdom of God here on earth, while at the same time preparing for the perfect Promised One. I trust we will each resolve and keep focus. I so pledge.

Humbly Submitted by

Rev Canon Dr Alson B H Percival

Parish Priest