From Rwanda to Kenya: A Christian Call to Prayer, Peace and Action
Yesterday, I had the privilege of sharing a conversation on Hope TV about the contribution of Christians during times of political turmoil, particularly as Kenya approaches another election. Our discussion focused on an important question: What can Kenya learn from Rwanda to prevent the tragedy of genocide from ever happening again in our nation?
During the conversation, I shared my personal testimony of what I witnessed in Rwanda and reflected on how the genocide could have been prevented. One of the greatest lessons from that painful history is that silence in the face of hatred, division, and violence can have devastating consequences.
As Christians, we have a responsibility that goes beyond attending church services and praying for peace. We are called to be peacemakers, voices of truth, and agents of reconciliation in our communities and nation.
We concluded that our prayers must be accompanied by action.
What, then, should be our contribution as Christians in Kenya?
Speak and preach against violence. We must never remain silent when we see hatred, tribalism, incitement, or threats of violence. The Church must boldly proclaim love, forgiveness, unity, and respect for human life.
Pray against the powers of darkness. We must stand in prayer against every force that seeks to destroy our unity, peace, and future. Our spiritual responsibility is to seek God’s intervention in the affairs of our nation.
Pray and promote political tolerance. We must encourage Kenyans to respect one another despite their political differences. Democracy allows us to disagree without becoming enemies.
Guide and encourage the younger generation. Our young people have a democratic right to express their views, participate in political processes, and hold leaders accountable. However, they must do so peacefully, without destroying lives, property, or the development we have worked so hard to achieve.
Be agents of peace and reconciliation. The Church must bring people together rather than deepen divisions. Our pulpits, churches, and communities should become platforms for healing, understanding, and national unity.
The Bible gives us powerful examples of how prayer can change the destiny of a nation and a people.
When King Jehoshaphat faced a great enemy, he called the nation to seek the Lord. God intervened and delivered them (2 Chronicles 20).
When Queen Esther faced the threat of destruction against her people, she called for fasting and prayer. God used her courage and obedience to bring deliverance to her people (Esther 4–8).
These stories remind us that God is still able to intervene in the affairs of nations.
As Kenya approaches an election, let us not wait until tragedy strikes before we become voices of peace. Let us pray, but also act. Let us preach peace, reject violence, confront hatred, promote tolerance, and teach our children that political differences should never cost us our humanity.
Our political leaders may differ. Our political opinions may differ. But our destiny as one nation must remain connected.
