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• Daniel's blog
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On 24th October we will be celebrating Zambia's 45th Independence.  But if we are sincere we will confess   that we are not in control of our nation. Other nations and people dominate our economy and politics. Our mismanagement of the economy has played right into the hands of these nations who now dictate our economic policies and make certain their execution.

Similarly, at a political level the immense financial resources of the donor and investor community give it tremendous political power in determining who should be our political leaders and how we should rule ourselves. Sadly, the political freedom we thought we had gained at independence forty- five years ago was an illusion. Is it not intriguing that at our celebration at the State House the people who are invited will include diplomats and investors?

There is nothing wrong with inviting diplomats and investors. But if their presence shows that it has less to do with our independence celebration and more to do with them showing gratitude to the government for their blessings resulting from our labour then there is something wrong.

As a nation we are being confronted with a situation where the majority of our people are not included even within the dim light of this glorious anniversary. It will be very interesting to see what our leaders in government will boast about in their speeches on Independence Day regarding liberty, equality, justice,  compassion, love for the nation and neighbour and greatness.
It will equally be amazing to be in church next Sunday and pay attention to the focus of the liturgy.

Will our prayers, singing and sermons focus on thanksgivings? Will men and women be on their knees or be laying prostrate and in humility and brokenness of heart express gratitude for the gifts of copper, water, fertile land and other minerals?  Will they say thank God in Jesus name for these blessings that have created wealth for our people? Will they thank God for more jobs, better health, and education facilities?

Independence Day reveals what we ought to be doing to take charge of our own destiny. It is not going to be easy, but the church has what it takes to make a significant contribution such that Zambians are in charge. If the church is to do this it must preach hard work instead of favour; preach integrity and denounce corruption; preach fair play and demonstrate that it does not practice nepotism and tribalism; preach justice and show that it is in the business of uplifting the lives of orphans, widows and the oppressed. 

Church leaders have a greater responsibility of living by example, teaching and insisting on strict discipline in all areas of life. This will not earn them popularity. This may cost them in terms of financial, moral, and political support. But this is God’s invitation to them as pastors and prophets-to proclaim the will of God to their flock and to society insisting on Christian morality in the church, in the state, and in society.  Meanwhile, I continue to pray for a day when the majority of our people will joyful and proudly sing on Independence Day “Stand sing of Zambia proud and free. Land of work and joy in unity victors in the struggle for our land we have won freedom fight…”