The conference in Polokwane (Pietersburg) from 16-20 December could
have just been another political party gathering, but that is not to be. The party in
question is the ruling and by far in the majority African National Congress (ANC) and
at this conference they will be electing their top leadership. The stakes are high,
divisions are obvious with accusations and counter-accusations about millions changing
hands in order to buy votes. There are also allegations of intimidation, security concerns
at the conference and in the country as a whole.
People should be forgiven for sometimes being cynical about lofty political
statements like, "A government of the people, by the people, for the people."
Often, when political garbs are removed the naked truth is laid bare for those who can see
that most rhetoric that is branded about boils down to one thing - individual interests.
During one of my early visits to Europe a brother asked me if I knew what
human rights were about. Then he pulled out his purse from the back pocket and told
me, "This is human rights - money."
Be that as it may, the truth is that whether we like it or not it does matter who our
rulers are. The laws they make affect us in one way or another. As Christians we are hurt
deeply when politicians pass laws that are contrary to God's Law.
God knows what will be going on in the hearts of the delegates at Polokwane
when they stand up to sing South Africa's national anthem,
"Nkosi sikelel' i-Afrika...
Woza Moya oyiNgcwele."
(God bless Africa...
Come Holy Spirit.)
Let me plead with you to intercede for South Africa, that indeed we may be
blessed and that the Holy Spirit may come.
"
your kingdom come, your will be done on
earth as it is in heaven." (Matthew 6:10)
Have a blessed weekend.
Pressing on!
In His love
Fano Sibisi
