“Fake prophets, fake pastors, fake apostles, who use the name of Jesus to defraud the indigent. They say they do miracles. They say they cure cancer. They say they cure AIDS, and other afflictions. Here, I put up a reward of Shs. 200 million to any pastor willing to go to a hospital – Rubaga, Mulago, and others. Pray for and heal a known bedridden and hospitalized ailing person. None has taken up the challenge. The reward offer has gone up to Shs. 500 million, none has taken it up still.” Political and social Commentator Gashumba Frank (translated from Luganda to English and paraphrased by Owaraga Norah).
In light of the ‘Gashumba Challenge’ I find the more poignant wisdom of our very own award-winning writer, lawyer and human rights activist, Kakwenza Rukirabashaija, forced to live in exile.
Specifically, his critique of the prevalent misuse and misunderstanding of the Bible. A book which he describes as:
“An important text on human relations. The Bible is an example of speaking against injustice.”
Kakwenza, who, by the way, self-identifies as a Patheist, is of the view, that if read and utilized properly, the Bible is a powerful guide for meaningful living.
Utilizing lessons and stories told in the Bible, appreciating the central message, adapting it and applying it within our own context – geographically and the era in which we live.
Unfortunately, as can be deduced from the raging furor ignited by the ‘Gashumba Challenge’, the norm is to misuse and misapply the Bible.
Quoting scripture written in another era, for another geography, for another culture; and transplanting it for misuse and misapplication to justify inhumanity and indignity in our geography, culture and the era in which we live.
Giving us significant food for thought.
Blogs, such as this and the one re-blogged (see link above), blogging in general, is something that I have done and continue to do, that my past self would be proud of.
Posts I authored decades ago, continue to be relevant and bring value to current conversations. This post is likely, going to be one of those that stands the test of time. Looking forward to the engagement it triggers.
Let’s Chat…