One religious leader is reminding society that God is with all of us.
Reverend Hugh Sandiford emphasised this during his sermon at St. Matthias Anglican Church on Sunday. In his brief contribution, he acknowledged the annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary noting the various challenges she faced during this time.
The reverend recounted that Mary was no older than sixteen, pregnant with Jesus, and engaged.
“Even more disturbing, this child would not belong to her husband-to-be. This was dangerous for (Mary) because at best, it would mean the end of the engagement,” said Rev. Sandiford.
The rector also noted that her pregnancy would have expelled her from her family even resulted in her death. He explained that the engagement was a significant step and unfaithful behaviour was frowned upon and punished in society. Reverend Sandiford preached that not only was God interrupting Mary’s life, He was changing the course of history.
From the Gospel, the reverend noted that Mary was submissive and embraced the role that she was asked to fulfill. The head of St. Matthias Anglican Church said for her it was the beginning of a journey with many challenges and pain but she allowed God to be in control. Reverend Sandiford said Mary’s selflessness and humility are examples of the posture Christians should assume as disciples. He noted that when people encounter problems in life, they try to take control and work things out as they believe they can come to a solution on their own.
With the ongoing pandemic, Reverend Sandiford said people are struggling to come to terms with the issue and there is great uncertainty about the future. Noting that the present situation might get worse before it gets better and the vaccine not due until early next year, he said society wants some level of normalcy. The reverend noted that some people have become complacent as they seek to carry out their agenda. He stressed that God is with us.
“We (must) continue like Mary to put our trust in God,” said Reverend Sandiford.
