February 2007
by Akiiki D. Kabagarama

When Jesus spoke again to the people he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." - John 8:12

I was in Kampala during the 1979 war that ousted Idi Amin from power. It was a time of fear, pain and heartache. As bombs fell and buildings collapsed, family members often huddled together, hoping and praying that peace would return. Especially during the final days of the war, we searched constantly for the latest news.

Government news sources kept on assuring us that the government forces were winning and that they were driving the invading forces back. We nevertheless heard a different story when we secretly listened to outside news on BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) and Voice of America. From these outside sources, we learned that the coalition forces were advancing toward the city of Kampala.

The night before Kampala was taken over by the coalition forces was one filled with terror. Bombs pounded throughout the night. It was too late for us to run from the city to the countryside. And, even if one had tried to escape, the major roads leading away from the city had military roadblocks. Our only choice was to wait in the darkness and pray. Eventually the long night ended and many of us had survived.

When terror strikes in your life, where do you go for news to give you a proper perspective? Jesus brought to us the good news of the Kingdom of God. These are the words he spoke at the beginning of his ministry; "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent, and believe in the good news" (Mark 1:15, NRSV).

Throughout the gospels, we are told that Jesus is the true source of life, having been present at the beginning of creation (John 1:1-5). When terror threatens to engulf us, let us quickly turn to the source of good news, and receive assurance that peace shall prevail.

Prayer

Loving God,

You are our source of comfort and hope in time of trouble. Help us to remember to turn to you first while searching for answers. Even when we do not understand why terror strikes, help us quickly to turn to you for comfort and deliverance. Amen.