A new year, but same old stories

The writer of the book of Ecclesiastes introduces his observations of the issues troubling the world with this statement in the New Year’s state of the world address: “What has been will be again, what happened will happen again. There is nothing new under the sun. Year after year, it is the same old thing.

Is there anything of which one can say, “Look! This is something new?” Do not get excited-it is the same old story. Nobody remembers what happened yesterday. In addition, nobody will remember the things that will happen tomorrow. There is no remembrance of men of old. And those who are yet to come will not be remembered by those who follow.”

Everyone seeking to have new experiences in the New Year should review this statement. This statement deserves due consideration by all governments and opposition groups. Every person needs to put their heart and mind to the implications of these words.
We must remember that these things remain and will not be eradicated by the multiparty system and human plans.

The global challenges of poverty, disease, famine, economic meltdown, global warming, corruption and war will remain. They are not new though their scale may be going to new levels in the New Year. The challenges of Uganda shall remain the increased complexity of land usage, the homosexuality Bill, the tribalistic worldview, violent approach to debating national issues and political intrigue. None of these will be resolved by simplistic wishes and promises by the government to take the nation to paradise.

The solution demands a deeper appreciation of the root to these issues that are here to bring trouble on mankind. The challenges ahead have different roots that need different approaches to finding a solution. There are challenges that are God’s smoke signal of the pending trouble if man continues to ignore Him as the ultimate owner of the earth. Then there are challenges that arise from man’s corrupt nature that is constantly going down the drain.

There are challenges of leadership and governance. Then there are challenges of increased breaking of barriers of science and knowledge. Each of these contributors has a significant impact on the life of the occupants of the earth. And the greater challenge is that each factor is intertwined with others to create a cocktail of trouble for all.

The way to make it into a new experience of good and serenity is by seeking and finding wisdom. Wisdom begins with the fear of God. Wisdom demands a keen listening ear and an obedient heart. Whoever hardens his heart against instruction and correction; sets himself up for trouble and destruction. It is not enough to start the year with great enthusiasm. We should individually and nationally seek to possess the wisdom that makes all things new.