Psalm 126; Philippians 3:4-14; John 12:1-8
Introduction
When we speak about building a new nation in Christ, we refer to the spiritual transformation of a people or society based on the principles of God's kingdom. The Lord's prayer is centered on this call: "Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven" (Matt. 6:10). Building a new nation in Christ is to make room for His Kingdom to come and dwell on earth as it is in Heaven.
It is not merely about political or economic reforms or a reset agenda but about creating a nation rooted in peace, righteousness, justice, and love, as exemplified by Jesus Christ.
As we seek to build a new nation in Christ, we are reminded that true transformation comes not from human effort alone but through divine intervention and our commitment to God's will. Throughout history, God's people have experienced renewal and restoration when they turned back to Him in faith and obedience.
Today, as we reflect on this theme, let us consider how we can be instruments of God in establishing a nation He wants not what we want on the basis of our selfish ambitions.
A Nation Restored by God's Grace
Reading from Psalm 126, we capture the joy of a people restored by God. The Israelites, after experiencing captivity, rejoiced in their deliverance. "Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, 'The Lord has done great things for them.'"
In the same way, as a nation, we must recognize that true restoration of fortune is possible only through God’s intervention. If we desire a new beginning, we must place our trust in the Lord, who alone can restore our land.
Just as the captives returned with joy, we must seek God's help in overcoming the challenges of our time. Secularism always puts a nation into captivity, though it promises fortune. We must build our nation in Christ.
"They that sow in tears shall reap in joy" (Psalm 126:5). Hard work, prayer, and perseverance are necessary as we build a righteous nation.
Restoration requires repentance, humility, and a renewed focus on God's promises. Leaders of nations must accept the plan of Christ to bring lasting restoration to their citizens.
A Nation with a Renewed Mindset
The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 3, teaches us that true transformation comes from knowing Christ and pursuing Him wholeheartedly.
Paul had many reasons to boast about his past achievements, but he considered them as a "loss" compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ and the power of His resurrection. (Philippians 3:8). We must not live on past glories to destroy our future fortunes.
Building a new nation in Christ requires that we abandon self-righteousness and worldly status to humbly embrace the righteousness of God.
Let us learn from the people of Nineveh in the book of Jonah (Jonah 3:6-10).
Paul’s determination when he says, "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14) reminds us that we must keep our focus on God's purpose rather than personal or political gain. When politicians are setting the national agenda, their motivation and focus must always be on Christ but not on schemes to enrich themselves to destroy our fortune.
Our nation Ghana must be rebuilt in Christ. I say so because the national news nowadays is a shame. We have lost our love to defend than to destroy: ECG containers, galamsey menace, removal of key leaders due to political colour, political deception, injustice, etc. To build a new nation, we must develop a Christ-centered mindset, letting go of the past and striving toward God's greater calling for our people. What Ghana needs now is the renewal of our mindset and heart condition.
A Nation Defined by Sacrificial Love
The story of Mary anointing Jesus’ feet with costly perfume illustrates the importance of sacrificial love and devotion to Christ.
Mary's act of worship was an expression of deep gratitude and love for Jesus. Likewise, a nation built in Christ must be marked by love, humility, and service to others.
Judas criticized Mary’s act, but Jesus defended her. In our efforts to build a Christ-centered nation, we will face criticism and opposition, but we must remain steadfast. We should cast our minds on the horizon, not just what we will have today. Jesus said the perfume had a futuristic purpose.
True leadership and national renewal come through selfless service, investment - resources, time, and energy, not through greed or personal ambition but for the national good. Sadly, the voice we hear most nowadays is synonymous to Judas' own. As though they mean good, but for their own selfish parochial gains.
Conclusion
Building a new nation in Christ is not just a political or economic task; it is a spiritual and pastoral endeavor. It requires restoration through God’s grace, a renewed mindset that seeks righteousness, and a commitment to sacrificial love.
We must pray for our nation, seeking God’s wisdom and direction. We must embrace humility and unity, prioritizing God’s will over personal gain. We must serve one another in love, following Christ's example.
As we build, remember that “Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it” (Psalm 127:1). May God empower us to build a nation that glorifies Him and upholds His righteousness. Amen.
