AS we enter the Holy Week, it is important to remain humble and reflect on the true meaning of this important period on the Christian calendar.
Zambians must surely observe the Holy Week for what it is, especially that the country was declared a Christian Nation, a declaration which is in the preamble of the supreme law of the land.
This year, the country goes to the polls and therefore there is too much at stake for some political parties and leaders.
It is thus prudent for Zambians, especially the leaders, to continue preaching peace, love and unity from both the moral and Biblical perspective.
This can start with reflection on the Holy Week.
Yes, Palm Sunday is the Sunday before Easter which starts the Holy Week. On Palm Sunday Christians commemorate and praise the day Jesus triumphantly entered Jerusalem as Saviour and King, much to the chagrin of the Pharisees and high priests.
This is clearly stated in John 12:12-13.
The Holy Bible explains that as Jesus rode a donkey into the town of Jerusalem, a great crowd gathered and laid palm branches and their cloaks across the road, giving him royal respect and honour.
The numbers of people shouted “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
This was no ordinary feat as it was prophesied in the Old Testament in the book of Zechariah 9:9:
“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”
Eventually, Jesus was captured and crucified but on the third day he resurrected.
While observing the Holy Week, Zambians must reflect on the Holy Scripture, understand and implement the word.
In so doing, the citizens will be sowing seeds of love and unity which this country earnestly needs before, during and after the August 12 general elections.
It is time for all Zambians to curtail selfish interests and also time to embark on true reconciliation among political players.
Jesus himself preached love and forgiveness, the greatest commandment in the Bible.
It is important, therefore, to love God and everyone around, referred to as “your neighbour” in the Bible.
Zambians must not allow hatred and violence as politicians seek to get state power, but focus on initiatives to develop the country.
During the Holy week, therefore, citizens must discard any selfish motives and embrace selflessness in all endeavours.
It is imperative that this year’s general elections are conducted in a peaceful atmosphere for Zambia to maintain the attractive record of being a beacon of peace in the region and beyond.
Therefore, Zambians must use the Holy Week to reflect on the word of God and emulate Jesus Christ’s invariable demonstration of love, forgiveness and humility.
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