Archbishop of Lusaka, Dr. Alick Banda issues a message of hope in difficult times

Archbishop of Lusaka, Dr. Alick Banda issues a message of hope in difficult times

Advent Message Hope in Trying Times (Romans 15:13)

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

1. Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. As we enter this sacred season of Advent, we are invited once again to prepare our hearts for the coming of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Advent is a time of expectation, a time of hope, and a time of renewal. It is also a season when we look forward with joyful anticipation to the celebration of our Saviour’s birth. Thus, it is a time for us to be focused on the promise of God.

2. The prophet Isaiah reminds us that, “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those uwho dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them light has shone” (Isaiah 9: 1).

This verse speaks eloquently to us now when many of our people are burdened by the challenges that face our nation. The impact of drought has been severe. Hunger is gripping many households. The rising rate of crime among our youth is frightening. Our social amenities are stretched, and the sense of uncertainty about tomorrow weighs heavily on the hearts of many.

3. In the midst of these struggles, there are those who suffer malice because of their faith, their convictions, principles, or simply their social standing. Yet, as we journey through Advent, we are reminded that it is precisely in such moments of difficulty that God’s promises shine brightest. God will never abandon His people and as such we should not lose hope for a better tomorrow.

4. St. Paul reiterates this when he says, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in your faith, so that in the power of the Holy Spirit you may be rich in hope” (Romans 15:13).

Therefore, during this season, let us hold fast to this hope. The God who brought light to the world through the birth of His only Son is with us. He is Emmanuel God with us -in every trial, every challenge, and every moment of our lives.

We may feel the weight of scarcity, but be assured that God will provide. We may feel vulnerable and despondent, but God will see us through. Let us not lose sight of the gift of hope that Advent offers. Let us lift up our eyes to the horizon where the dawn is breaking.

Our Lord is coming, and He comes to make all things new. There is no need to despair, no need to be fearful, and no need to be doubtful. God’s grace is sufficient for us and that our efforts, however small, contribute to the building of His kingdom.

Let us, therefore, be instruments of hope in our communities.

6. For those suffering hunger, let us extend a hand of generosity. For the youth who have lost their way, let us be mentors and guides; showing them that they are valued and that their future is filled with possibilities.

For those feeling the weight of the present circumstances, let us be a voice of encouragement, pointing them to Christ who brings us peace. For those charged with power, let it be an opportunity to serve, and not to settle scores.

7. As we prepare our hearts to welcome the Prince of Peace, let us be renewed in our hope and strengthened in our resolve to care for one another. The night may be dark, perhaps too dark, but the real new dawn is coming. May Mary, the mother of the Child Jesus and Our Lady of Lusaka intercede for us.

Given this at Lusaka, Cathedral of the Child Jesus, this 24th November, Solemnity of Christ the King, in the Year of our Lord 2024, Seventeenth of our Episcopate.