Insight

Thoughts on Kenya

It’s hard to understand the hatred in the hearts of men. But it’s reality, and as a church we have to deal with it. I don’t believe there’s a better time for the Church to show what Jesus taught us in the Sermon on the Mount. Instead of seeking revenge we want to show love.

Throughout Kenya, believers are showing people in Africa that we don’t seek revenge. Instead, we will show love in this time of crisis. It’s a great moment for the Church to be the hands of Christ extended by assisting with the urgent needs that have resulted from a massacre.

One of the great virtues of the Christian message is that it brings people together who otherwise would never unite. We have seen this down through history. We saw it in the New Testament when Jews and Gentiles came together and were a part of the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ. This is now happening in Kenya. We have seen opposing tribes worshipping in the same church, because hatred and animosity of years past are eliminated when we are found in Christ.

I believe this disaster will bring about even greater unity in the days ahead. In the article “Massacre in Kenya,” you will read words from Pastor Mburu, who was at the scene of terrible atrocities. You will see the benefits of training national leaders who, in the hour of crisis, display such a beautiful spirit of Christ and are indeed the salt and light in their beloved country.

I pray every one of us will do our very best to make sure the basic necessities of food and shelter and medical attention are met for the people who have been affected by this great tragedy.

L. JOHN BUENO

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