The Psalmist David wrote in Psalms that how good and pleasant it was for brothers to dwell together in unity! It was like the precious oil upon the head, coming down upon the beard.
Martin Luther once said: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that. We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive. He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love. There is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us. When we discover this, we are less prone to hate our enemies”.
While Apostle Paul wrote in Corinthians that even if we speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, we are only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. Even If we had the gift of prophecy and could fathom all mysteries, knowledge and had faith that could move mountains, but do not have love, we are nothing.
Apostle Paul in Corinthians also said: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres”.
Jesus also told his disciples to love their neighbor as they love themselves because this was the greatest commandment.
So, what the leaders of Patriotic Front have done is remarkable and should be supported by all Zambian. It is important that Leaders get together and unite for a purpose. It is important that the ruling party unity for seek of peace in Zambia.
It is in this regard, that urge I every Zambian that as we celebrate the life of Jesus Christ it is important that we forgive and love one another.
Forgiveness is one of the most important issues that we all face in life. It is important because it matters in our life. We will never be free of the need of receiving forgiveness from God and from one another.
Forgiveness plays a key role in our lives. Forgivenes, helps us to develop godly and healthy relationships. Jesus said :"And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses".
Paul also said: 'forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus’.
We can really live a life of peace and tranquility if we have the 'will to forgive'! Jesus also retaliated in the book of Mark that if we were not willing to forgive other people their trespasses against, then God in heaven would not forgive us.
So in order to be forgiven, we first need to be forgiving. Perhaps one of the most widely recognized individuals associated with love and forgiveness in governance is Nelson Mandela, who played a pivotal role in combating apartheid in South Africa.
As the first South African president elected through a fully representative democratic election, Mandela galvanized his country to pursue a path of forgiveness and reconciliation, enabling many to move past the numerous atrocities that occurred during the reign of apartheid.
Having been subjected to a total of 27 years in prison, much of which he served on Robben Island, Mandela was uniquely positioned to exemplify the act of love and forgiveness for his fellow compatriots.
Therefore, as we celebrate Christmas lets forgive those who have hurt us during this year. Forgive everyone that made you a fool. Embrace everyone that made you cry with shame.
Forgive your husband, wife, in laws and children. Forgive your accusers. Forgive your boss. Forgive everyone, known and unknown. Pray and love your enemies always so that God bless you abundantly.
Merry Christmas and happy new year to all Zambians. Surely goodness and mercy shall not depart away from you for the one who has called you is faithful and shall surely bless you.