Rev. L. Suohie Mhasi
We have first of all to fight against the unseen forces which impede the success of the efforts of the people for peace and unity such as degeneration, the power of darkness and jealousy.
Degeneration
It is natural that a man is like what he is. What he does reflects what he is. According to Biblical terms, a spiritual man does the thing which is spiritual and a carnal man does the thing which is carnal. Likewise, a regenerated man does a thing as a regenerated man and a degenerated man does a thing as a degenerated man. The Naga people have been passing through a tragic situation such as fratricidal conflict and intimidation. Various attempts have been made by the people to stop it but failed. Why? Because such acts are the reflection of what the perpetrators really are. It is an act of degeneration and modern savagery.
A regenerated man hates evil but a degenerated man delights to do evil. We have to fight the good fight of faith so that we may live a regenerated life in Jesus Christ. (I Tim. 6: 12)
The act of sin
Apostle Paul said, “For the good that I would, I do not; but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.” (Rom. 7:19-20). Sin is the root cause of fratricidal conflict and devilish doings. How can peace be brought about without removing sins from the heart? Repentance and forsaking of sins will be pre-requisite to forgiveness and reconciliation. It is possible if sin is removed and the heart is cleansed of sins without which the call for forgiveness and reconciliation will be a mere slogan.
The power of darkness
We have to fight against the power of darkness that causes man to fall into sin. Satan tries to destroy man by luring man into sin and if man falls into sin, sin brings the wrath or curse of God upon the victim. So victory over Devil is separation from sins. It is vain to cast out Devil by retaining sins in the heart.
Jealousy
Individual public, NGOs and the Church are too individualistic and there is lack of concerted efforts. When someone initiates an attempt for peace, the others remain silent spectators without appreciating or encouraging or giving moral support. Some are even jealous of the success of others. Nothing is impossible through the concerted efforts of the public, NGOs and the Church. By all means the primitive practice of fratricidal conflict should be put to an end and in order to make the campaign a success, all should raise their voices in a chorus for the right thing and harness their efforts to save the people.
The need of the day is rededication to Christ and to fight against degeneration, sin and the power of darkness which are the unseen evil forces against the process of bringing about peace.
