“Have A Reason To Praise The Lord!”(Ex.15:19-21).
“When Pharaoh’s horses, chariots and horsemen[a] went into the sea, the Lord brought the waters of the sea back over them, but the Israelites walked through the sea on dry ground. Then Miriam the prophet, Aaron’s sister, took a timbrel in her hand, and all the women followed her, with timbrels and dancing. Miriam sang to them: ‘Sing to the Lord, for he is highly exalted. Both horse and driver he has hurled into the sea.'”
Few years ago a Nigerian missionary in Cameroon gathered some of us to explain a vision in which it was revealed to him that Africans should constitute a delegation to go and apologise to the Jews for pursuing them out of Egypt. My question was, “Why not your country Nigeria that has about ten times the population of Cameroon?” We were told Cameroon was the country chosen to lead the delegation.
For me, such a mission was untenable! I told the gathering that the Jews are the ones to apologise to Africa because the Bible has many stories of how Africa contributed hugely in the Salvation story.
Egypt hosted Abraham and saved his life. Egypt hosted Joseph, favoured him with power next only to Pharaoh. Through Joseph Egypt saved the Hebrews from a severe world famine and offered them the best portion of the country to live in for over 400 years.
Top of it all, when Herod sought to kill baby Jesus, it was Egypt that provided asylum to Joseph, Mary, and baby Jesus. And on Jesus’ way to the cross, it was an African who helped ease his burden to carry his cross for part of the journey.
What we are struggling to explain is that an Egyptian Christian cannot find comfort in scriptures like, “the Egyptians you see today, you will see them no more.” We are not saying scriptures is only about finding comfort; but the scriptures is “good news.”
The day the victor celebrates their win with songs of victory is the day that the vanquished sing dirges for their fallen soldiers! Such is the twist of fate!
The Son of God came to change this narrative of celebrating the destruction of our enemies. He expects us to pray for our enemies because they act in ignorance.
However, for every milestone achievement, we have all the reasons to “sing to the LORD, for he is highly exalted.”
My friend, at whatever level you are, count your blessings: achievements, elevation, protection, healing, good health, daily provision and guidance. Acknowledge that it is the LORD’S doing. Isn’t it marvellous? If it is, burst out in joyous songs and exalt the LORD for love! Above all, see what good the LORD has done for our salvation, and which is reason enough to praise him, singing the day and singing the night.
Prayer of the day and week: We praise you, LORD, for you are highly exalted. You fill our cups to the brim. Amen!
Welcome back to a new working day and week! Have a blessed working day and week! Peace be with you!
Rev Babila Fochang.
19/05/2025.