People go to great lengths to gain attention in different aspects of life. In business, some dress in revealing outfits or use aphrodisiacs to attract customers. In politics, speeches are exaggerated, and false promises are made to win votes and support. In traditional settings and many third-world churches, food, drinks, and money-often scarce-are offered with heavy hearts just to gain the attention of elders and leaders.
However, when it comes to God, Yahweh, the key to gaining his attention is not through worldly tactics but by abandoning our old ways, habits, and occupations that hinder us from doing his will. This is evident in the Scriptures. In Genesis 12:1, when God called Abram, he left his father’s land. In Matthew 4:18-20, when Jesus called Peter, he abandoned his fishing profession. In Acts 9:3-20, Saul left his Jewish engagements after encountering Jesus on the road to Damascus.
Personally, I come from a village where polygamy is still accepted. When I chose the path of the priesthood-a vocation of celibacy-many saw me as a rebel and did not support me in the seminary. But today, they respect me because they recognise in me something greater than what my village culture could offer.
I give glory to God for his grace upon my life! I also pray for all those striving to deny themselves, take up their crosses, and follow Jesus, that they may never regret their sacrifices. This I pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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