“Those who want to protest can go ahead, we’ll be here eating.” It is unfortunate that at a time when things are tough for the common man and woman, life and property insecure and pangs of suffering pervade the land, a supposed “responsible” leader could make such an unguarded statement and later claimed it was a joke......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
Was it the first time? Of course, not! When leaders begin to make unguarded utterances while the poor masses wallow in penury, it makes a mockery of the image of God in the human person. It is unfortunate!
The history of the world is actually replete with the rising and falling of kings and kingdoms; the rising and falling of empires and emperors. The entire gamut of world history presents us with tales of enthronements and dethronements of individuals and groups with their transient powers.
We are conversant with the Pharaohs of Egypt, Nebuchadnezzars of Babylon during the exilic experience of Daniel’s time. Down the path of history, we know of Alexander the Great whose reign was felt around the known world of his time; we know of Alfred the Great, Darius the Great, Charlemange, Louis XIV and others. Many empires have risen and fallen: the Roman Empire; theSpanish Empire, and the Empires of France and Britain.
In modern history, we know of Haile Selassie (the 225th and last emperor of Ethiopia), Adolf Hitler (the Nazi machinery of the holocaust), Idi Amin (the ruthless self-acclaimed Field Marshal and President for life of Uganda).
In contemporary history, we know of the Saddam Husseins, the Mubaraks, and probably the last from this era was Muammar Gaddafi who organized his own crowning as king of kings of Africa.
One common denominator is that all these kingdoms and their kings crumbled at some historic points.
Those who wield power today should note that Empires and regimes come and go, and that nothing lasts forever. Keep mocking and laughing at the poor- Earthly power and wealth are temporary and can be taken away at any time.
Where are those who ruled this country like gods yesteryears? For some today, the wealth they amassed can not give them health, peace, and joy – material riches can not guarantee well-being or happiness.
The God of the poor is on the throne! Luke 1:52-53 says, “He has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate.”
SHALOM!
Rev. Fr. Paul Jatau, Abuja