Throughout His life, Jesus Christ did not build a physical church or establish a grand institution. His ministry was marked by simplicity, humility, and a focus on people.
He taught in open spaces, by the seaside, on mountains, and in homes. Jesus’ life and teachings were not centered on constructing buildings but on transforming hearts, minds, and souls. His mission was to exemplify love, compassion, and service to others, emphasizing the kingdom of God within each individual.
In Ghana, Christianity has become intertwined with the construction of churches, extravagant worship spaces, and financial demands that sometimes overshadow the true essence of Jesus’ life. This focus on material expressions of faith can risk alienating the core message of Jesus: to love God and love others as oneself.
The Essence of Who Jesus Was:
1. A Servant Leader: Jesus came not to be served but to serve others, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and uplifting the downtrodden. His example calls us to humility and service rather than personal glorification.
2. A Voice for the Marginalized: Jesus stood with the oppressed, the poor, and the outcasts. His life reminds us to prioritize care for the vulnerable over wealth and power.
3. A Teacher of Love and Forgiveness: At the core of Jesus’ teachings is the call to love unconditionally and forgive endlessly. His life challenges us to let go of division and embrace unity.
4. A Spiritual Guide: Jesus pointed people to the Father and taught that the kingdom of God is within us. He did not bind faith to buildings but to personal transformation and relationship with God.
A Message for Ghanaians:
As a deeply religious nation, Ghana must reflect on the true teachings of Jesus. Building elaborate churches and emphasizing external rituals can never substitute for the internal work of faith. Jesus’ life teaches us to:
Focus on helping the less fortunate rather than pursuing wealth or status.
Cultivate integrity and humility, recognizing that faith is a personal journey, not a show for others.
Prioritize unity and peace, rejecting tribalism, division, and selfish ambition.
Embrace service to humanity, as Jesus served without seeking reward or recognition.
By focusing on who Jesus was and living out His principles, Ghanaians can transform not just their personal lives but also their communities and nation. Let us shift the focus from building physical churches to building lives grounded in love, justice, and service—the true essence of Jesus Christ.
