THE EDITOR, Sir:
LIKE MANY Jamaicans, I am deeply concerned about the escalating levels of crime and violence in our society.
Many reasons for this phenomenon have been given, for example, poverty, unemployment, the drug trade, break-down in the family unit and politics.
These reasons seem valid, but despite efforts made to address some of these problems by the government and various organisations including the church, the situation has worsened. Fear is gripping the nation as the wanton loss of lives continues daily.
May I share what I consider to be a major reason? A breakdown in the Church the called out body of believers.
In II Chronicles 7:14 the word of God states "If my people which are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from Heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
NEEDS HEALING
Jamaica needs social, mental, moral and spiritual healing and God can bring the deliverance and healing we need. However, the Church 'My people' must fulfill the requirements as set out in II Chronicles 7:14.
Why are we in this dilemma despite the many crusades, conventions, campaigns, conferences and convocations?
Pastors, church leaders, brethren, come on, let us clean up ourselves, let us get down before God in prayer and fasting seeking His cleansing and forgiveness.
We need to cry out as David did in Psalm 51:10, "Create in me a clean heart O God, and renew a right spirit within me."
Yes, a spirit of humility, love and compassion, forgiveness, purity, unity and honesty; then and only then will the full potential of the church be realised as we seek to be God's hands of love and healing.
There is no limit to what the Church can do through the transforming power of Jesus Christ but we need to stand in unity, empowered by the Holy Ghost as we wrestle, not against each other but against the demons of murder, rape, kidnapping, gambling and other demons that have possessed the minds of many people.
The minister of National
Security and his team are really trying hard but this is more than they can manage they need help!
So 'onward Christian soldiers, marching as to war, looking unto Jesus who has gone before'.
I am, etc.,
MORDEA DINNALL
University of Technology
Kingston 6
