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A new nation is born: South Sudan |
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Congratulations are always in order when a child has been born. It is in that sense of joy and hope that congratulations are in order for the birth of a new nation, South Sudan. Africa’s newest nation has been born in an unusual way, “a kind of caesarean operation”, that has opinions divided on its merits.
Those opposed to this way of solving problems argue that it will encourage separatist movements in other countries. Those in support say it is better than going to war to solve such problems and besides, it addresses the problem of colonially imposed boundaries that are a scourge of many parts of Africa. |
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Maybe the answer to the problems of the world in general and Africa in particular lies in the words of the prophet Isaiah, words that we often turn to during Christmas time: |
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Nevertheless there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress. In the past he humbled the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the future he will honour Galilee of the Gentiles, by the way of the sea, along the Jordan- The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.
You have enlarged the nation and increased their joy; they rejoice before you as people rejoice at the harvest, (as men rejoice when dividing the plunder). For as in the day of Midian’s defeat, you have shattered the yoke that burdens them, the bar across their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, Every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood will be destined for burning, will be fuel for the fire.
For to us a child is born, for to us a child is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace, there will be no end.
He will reign on David’s throne and over his kingdom, establishing it and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this.
(Isaiah 9: 1 – 7. New International Version) |
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Let these words of Isaiah be our prayer for South Sudan, especially that the new nation may be established on justice that will lead to peace. For it is not a matter of having one’s ethnic group near us that will make us good neighbours and citizens but it is a life of justice for all that will save Africa and the world from self-destruction. |
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Let there be no more gloom distress for South Sudan, Africa and the world, In the past the land of Africa was divided and cut up into pieces of colonial prey, The people walked in darkness and oppression, living in the land of the shadow of death,
May the light of justice dawn upon Africa! May Africa’s vision be enlarged with justice and its peace increased because of justice, May the yoke of injustice be shattered forever and, the bas of dictatorships across its shoulder be broken, Let every warrior’s boot used in battle and every garment rolled in blood be destined for burning, May the light of justice dawn upon Africa!
For to us a child is born, a child is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace, there will be no end. Let Africa establish and uphold herself with justice and righteousness from this time forever. |
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