Written by: Siphiwe Christopher Mathebula
Article source: JOY! Magazine
“The test of good citizenship is loyalty to country.” – Bainbridge Colby
Being a devoted citizen is the art of being human. We can all be better, smarter, wiser, and even kinder to the world around us. Just start where you are, blossom from there, and then gradually increase your sphere of influence. The art of becoming a devoted citizen starts by using our five physical senses:
• Let us see the world for what it can be, not just for what it is. Just one kind word per day per person.
• Let us listen in order to understand, and speak in order to be understood.
• Let us feed the hungry and the vulnerable, because the appetites of those who have, are no better than the appetites of those who have not.
• Let us reach out and touch somebody because many people just need to know that there is somebody out there who is willing to take a minute out of their lives just for them.
• Let us smell the roses, appreciate one another and the little things we have.
Devoted Citizens in the Word
I once addressed our congregation at Hope Restoration Ministries with a message entitled, “A Devoted Citizen”. The sermon was based on Luke 10:30-37. I also referred to other characters in the Bible, as I challenged the church to become more devoted.
The Good Samaritan
Unlike the Priest and Levite who passed by when they came across the wounded man, the good Samaritan went closer, took care of the man, cleaned his wound, bandaged him, and transported him to safety. Taking the man to the inn, paying for the services, and promising the inn-keeper to reimburse whatever would be spent on the wounded man. It would seem this man was trusted and had a good reputation. Good citizens fulfil their promises. This story reminds me of how we react to crime scenes in our country. We look straight ahead and mind our own business while others go as far as taking videos and pictures for social media. All we need to do is find ways of being of assistance without endangering our lives when we see another human being in danger.
Joseph – a good citizen in a foreign land
Joseph moved from being a prisoner to occupying a leadership role in Egypt, bringing solutions during one of the most trying times in Egypt, when nations faced famine. There are parallels in meaning for our country – South Africa is a melting pot of different ethnicities, races, religions, and nationalities. While there have been reports of crimes being committed by some illegal immigrants, a good number of immigrants are living honourable lives and contributing to our economy and society. A devoted citizen knows how to adhere to the laws of any host countries they go to.
Zacchaeus – a tax collector
Zacchaeus was a tax collector who confessed that he had stolen money from people but wanted to change his ways. Zacchaeus represents citizens who wrongfully acquire wealth, but for the benefit of their country, they repent and repay what they have stolen. Part of national restoration is restitution of all that was gained illegally. When we empower others by being devoted citizens ourselves, we empower future generations. This message is applicable to all people regardless of their belief. My own eyes were opened to the fact that we must change ourselves first, before we see the change we desire in our homes, schools, hospitals, or in the public sector and private sector. Be a devoted citizen.
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Date published: 15/05/2024
Feature image: Image for illustrative purposes only. Artwork adapted from www.freepik.com
SIPHIWE CHRISTOPHER MATHEBULA – Lead Pastor: Hope Restoration Ministries. Visit hrm.org.za
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