Devon DickON THURSDAY, the National Leadership Prayer Breakfast (NLPB) was held under the theme 'One Hope, One Jamaica' but one could have thought that the theme was 'unity' based on the readings by the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. That emphasis was probably a reflection of the hand of the Prime Minister who wants the 'two Jamaicas' to be history as he bequeaths a united Jamaica.
In addition, the new chairman of NLPB, Las Newman and new secretary Christopher Mason emphasised the offering for suffering children. However, that emphasis was probably due to the media who have been clamouring that the event must do something practical. Using proceeds to validate an event has its problems because casinos and pornographic owners donate to worthy causes also.
However, when Bishop Charles Dufour spoke, one was left in no doubt that the theme was about Hope. He outlined what Christian hope is and what it is not. He said, "usually, hope is based on solid facts or at least on well established indicators: a decline in crime rates, the decrease in unemployment, a rise in the world stock exchange." Then, these and other signs will determine and control how hopeful we feel. However, according to the Roman Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Montego Bay, Christian hope is a different thing entirely.
He explained that, "In Christian hope the situation does not determine our future, nor does it control our attitudes. Rather, Christian hope allows us to trust that God is working out our salvation, even when we do not see the positive signs of his work and presence among us." He further explained that, "In ordinary hope we are victims of the situation and of fate; in Christian hope we are free children of God, making decisions and choices that determine the future." Christian hope is based on God with persons engaging in action inspired by the Spirit of God. It is discovering the power of God in us and in our situation. It is discerning God's presence in our history.
And to illustrate that point, he told an engaging story that troubled and challenged my mind. He related the experience of a once large, vibrant church that had a serious decline and the members were divided, discouraged and desperate. They believed that God would send someone special that would lead them to renewal. They asked a godly, wise old man when the chosen one would come. He smiled and told them, "the chosen one you seek is among you."
A flood of ideas went through my mind as I tried to apply that powerful parable to my situation. That deluge was not addressing my situation in which, the day before, a young member of my congregation was murdered at her aunt's house in Queen's Hill. She, a quiet, willing artiste, usher and a former leader in the church, was overseeing the house of her aunt, who had gone to Kansas to care for a sick sibling. She was also managing affairs for her friend and fellow Christian, Beverley, who was also overseas. This kind, unassuming girl was killed in the prime of her life. Where is the hope in that situation? Who will be the chosen one with special gifts of the Spirit to lead us to peace, justice and prosperity? We know that Jesus, the Christ, gives hope to Georgette in that her life is in Christ and that is not the end for her. But which human being will help us in Jamaica? The day following I got a glimpse of the answer.
On Friday night, I was invited by Louise Frazier-Bennett of the Sound System Association to discuss values and attitude on the Sauce Communications Network that beams to inner-city communities. The three-hour programme, 'Ready Fe Buss,' showcases up and coming artistes who are singing positive messages. On that programme, Louise, who is now attending new members class, does not allow any song that glorifies gun violence or that is disrespectful to women. Baby Flex sound system played gospel, Bob Marley's song, Luciano etc.
Talented Nadine Sutherland cheered the ambitious deejays while waiting patiently for 90 minutes to make an appearance on the programme. I was impressed with the cameraman Chris Barrett, who doubled as co-host. However, what I was most impressed with, was the new artistes who composed good songs with great lyrics. Black Indian, whose mother is Indian and father is black, sang a powerful song, Dreams do not come through which highlighted the struggle in the inner city. Mellow Banton of Grants Pen was equally impressive with Send God's love further, which is a plea for a better way in the ghetto.
'Ready Fe Buss' is designed to give hope and make a difference. The team has been broadcasting from November without a sponsor and without pay. The talented artistes have been singing positive messages without recognition and a producer. They are the chosen ones. In the eyes of these young people, HOPE ready fe buss.
The Rev. Devon Dick is pastor of Boulevard Baptist Church.
