By Nicholas Bass
The Most Reverend Bishop of the Catholic Diocese, GibrilMendy has admonished all and sundry to give thanks to the Almighty God in all circumstances for the God of peace to save one’s soul in this perilous journey of life.
Most Reverend Bishop Gibril Mendy in his New Year’s message at the Cathedral Church, Banjul Diocese said most times people wonder about their future and obligations in fear and uncertainties. Noting that such happens hence people do not know what lies ahead.
Bishop Mendy explained that Apostle Paul in the second book of Thessalonians verse 18 exhorted Christians to give thanks in all circumstances for it is the will of God for everyone to give thanks. He stressed that if someone gives thanks to God at all times the God of peace will be with such person grateful Him.
Reverend Bishop Mendy cited that apostle Paul during the early church expansion gave thanks to God the Almighty for enabling him (Paul) to preach the gospel to the unsaved and unreached nations, noting that every Saint must give thanks to God the Almighty.
He went on that Christians should give thanks because they are obliged to give thanks to God in all situations saying God gives life and sustains it and as such one should “give thanks to God even in pain, sorrows or difficulties or misfortunes in life”.
He lamented that it is difficult for one to appreciate God’s favor and care when misfortunes and difficulties befall a person but said with faith in God and wisdom one’s consent will be able to acknowledge God’s gracious divine providence.
King David, according to the Reverend Bishop Mendy, in Psalm forty-one (41) from verses one to five, narrated that David in his sickness affirmed how the Lord preserved him from sickness and infirmities as he gave thanks to God for preserving his life in the land of the living.
However, the Bishop urged the congregation to perform acts of charity and good service to humanity without counting the cost, and that such good deeds to humanity will serve as appreciation to God the Almighty as it will restore peace in one’s soul.
Bishop Mendy pleaded with Christians to pray at all times because when one gives thanks to God his/her consent and assurance in God’s salvation are without doubt.