Unchristly Behaviour Of Some Of Our Members

By DR Jalarth Uche Opara

For the umpteenth time I have had this nudge to say this, an observation that gives me cold flushes. I have observed it in the larger church, and here on the platform isn’t different.

Though a personal perception, however, it speaks profoundly to the very commandment of love that has no boundaries and favorites, which we are taught and should be worn at all times as ones garland.

Severally I have found myself fallen headlong into such unconciously; affirming without prejudice the nature of humans, driven by preference, class consciousness and personality cult mentality.

Take a painstaking look at thanksgiving processions in the church. Clearly, one would decern the depth of ones social network by the number of people that follow them in thanksgiving processions. Some lines very unending, others moderate while many with lines too brief, making them look isolated in a congregation where brotherhood should not be selective, solidarity a privilege and right, one should access in the house of God.

I have always looked forward to a situation where at every thanksgiving procession in the church, lines would be unending because the congregants would join not because of social or family affiliations, rather because of the bond shared in Christ Jesus.

Same discrimination often raises its ugly heads when people celebrate their birthdays on platforms. One could easily notice those with heavyweight influences and popularity. Their celebrations are dotted with more members’ wishes as against those whose social capital are lean and lightweight. Basically the function of the human nature, expectedly though, however, we should grow above this human nature and assume the nature of Christ that knows not ,who is Greek or Gentile, but relates with all with equal measure of love and care.

Let our show of love be one that is driven not by what one would gain, what one gained previously or out of emotional attachment, rather let it be one that showcases the unconditional love of God regardless of social status and economic power.

I am guilty of this too, the first accusing finger is surely pointed at me.

We can be the change we desire. The best way to behave, is to treat others the way one would want to be treated.

Next time one is thanking God, join the procession and be part of it. Partake in the reason for the thanksgiving. You don’t need to wait to be invited or know who is doing the thanksgiving.

Next time one celebrates their birthdays on platforms, celebrate with them. They don’t need to be your close friends, people you bond well with etc before you could pen down wishes to them. Celebrate them, a word of prayer, an emoji of love etc though seem insignificant could cause great joy in the hearts of the celebrants.

Never be a redundant observer on a platform. No comment, no likes, no share of anything, no forwarding of anything, just there, reading and scrolling, more like monitoring spirit. Such isn’t the spirit.

Jarlathuche@gmail.com