Rev N Tzüdir
Prophet Ezekiel talks about, “...rumours and calamities ...” (Ezek. 7: 26). And true to his prophecy, we live in a world which is full of rumours, calamities and fears – the fear of terrorism and war, of natural calamities, famine and starvation, fear of incurable diseases and death, fear of failure and wants, rejection and loneliness, the list goes on. When we consider the personal lives of the people around us, most of them have some kind of conflict – a conflict between good and bad – one that makes a person restless, thus causing them to become easy prey for the tempter. The result is a miserable and wretched being and society, and ultimately, a loveless and cruel world.
When we look at the lives of believers in Christ, their faith seem to be shallow and easily compromised. We don’t see the image of God in the life of his children. Should we say, then, that we are a Christ-less generation? Let me quote Paul’s statement, “They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God...” (Eph. 4:18). A darkened mind is useless to the kingdom of God as well as to society. This is how the whole creation is groaning, and our practical Christianity is zero and, spiritually ours is a death generation. (James 1:15) But we are far from realization of the fact.
Deep down in the human heart there is no peace of mind, no joy, only sorrow and anger, bitterness and hatred; dreams that are shattered; we don’t know whom to rely on; and don’t know whether someone cares for us. Even Mother Nature is becoming harsh towards us. Do we have any hope and shelter?
In such a time, it is good to sing the song “Jesus is the answer for the world today”. If Jesus is the answer, there is hope in Him for he said, “I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10). Are you lost and seem to have no hope? Try Jesus, He gives the fullest satisfaction to all who come to him. A wonderful realization of what we are and a will power to turn to the right direction are guaranteed. For the bible says, “And they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of devil, who has taken them captive to do his will.” (2 Timothy 2:26)
Christ is not only our hope, but our souls’ sure anchor, firm and secure (Heb. 6:18,19). In Christ, we have liberation – both physical and spiritual – a liberation from guilt and sin, liberation from the evils of this world, and a clear and good conscience which surpasses all the earthly matters, which is temporary and full of evil. Christ assures us liberation, which is both personal and collective. Because when we trust and take shelter in Christ, he purifies us in his likeness, and restores the image of God in us. And such people are called Blessed, because they shall see God.
(The writer is Pastor of Ao Baptist Church, Dimapur)
