“By what authority are you doing this, and who gave you this authority?” Mt 21:23
For us, Jesus’ authority is that of God. But for his contemporaries, nothing was obvious. Today, in the political world, particularly in the DRC, the notion of moral authority is growing, embodied by the leader, the master thinker. For us, this should not be the case, because the only Authority of reference is Christ.
Our Fundamental Principles invite us to listen and show compassion towards our brothers and sisters:
“Listen to your brothers and sisters and sympathize with their difficulties; bear with them in their weaknesses, encourage them, and support them. Strengthen your brothers and sisters…for his service.”
Proud power and the spirit of domination never accept the freedom that Jesus brings, in the face of all authority. How will we view our authority in the congregation, at all levels? Overwhelming? Protective?
Christ comes to illuminate our darkness, to establish the reign of God over our lives, our communities, our respective regions. Are we ready to let Jesus reign over us? Christmas is an inner invitation to recognize Jesus’ kingship over us. Christmas is approaching, and in the wake of the 29th General Chapter, the call to conversion becomes urgent for our congregation. We cannot welcome Jesus with hearts filled with resentment, hatred, lies, indifference, or attachment to sin. It is time to let the Holy Spirit open our eyes and hearts, like Balaam’s, to contemplate the greatness of God and to fully surrender to Him.
Lord our God, we bless You for Your Son, Jesus Christ, who illuminates our lives. Help us open our hearts to Your kingdom. Grant us the power to live in conversion and become worthy dwellings of Your Son. Amen.
Brother Vital-Andre Mwenge, CFX