One of Jamaica’s more senior pastors, Dr David Henry, invoked the lyrics of reggae legend Bob Marley in his sermon at the 45th National Leadership Prayer Breakfast to highlight what he said were global contradictions in the advancements of technology, wealth, and knowledge compared with growth in poverty, suffering, and violence.

“We live in a world, I believe you’d agree with me, of profound parallels and contradictions. Never before in the history of mankind has there been such a capacity for the creation of wealth and prosperity, and yet multiplied millions live and die in poverty,” Dr Henry said.

“Never before has there been such advances in knowledge, technology, and communication, yet multiplied millions are without access to education and basic health care. Never before has there been such advances in socio-economic and political institutions, and yet we are plagued with international terrorism, wars, failed states, refugee crises, the ravages of climate change, diseases, and more. As Bob Marley sang, ‘So much trouble in the world’,” Dr Henry said.

Marley’s hard-hitting social commentary, So Much Trouble In The World, is one of the tracks on his
Survival album released in 1979.

The song comments on the state of the world, speaking to a range of problems and conflicts, including poverty, inequality, war, and environmental degradation.

In his sermon at Jamaica Pegasus hotel in New Kingston on Thursday, Dr Henry said Jamaica is a classic example of these paradoxes.

“We are one of the most beautiful countries in the world, renowned for rich culture, athletic prowess, creativity, and ingenuity, and yet we are plagued with the scourge of deteriorating values and attitudes, gangs, violence, and more and more mass murders,” Henry said to nods of agreement from the congregation that included Prime Minister Dr Andrew Holness, Opposition Leader Mark Golding, other members of the Government and the political class, as well as private sector leaders.

Focusing on the event’s theme, ‘Righteousness Exalts A Nation’, Dr Henry, lead pastor at Swallowfield Chapel, urged the congregation to embrace the teachings of Jesus Christ in order to experience both personal fulfilment and national transformation.

“Righteousness is real. It enriches and makes your life whole for this life, and not only for this life but for eternity. And I can say unequivocally that righteousness transforms lives, transforms families, work, and our relationships, and in giving grace will exalt a nation,” Dr Henry said.

“Our relationship with a righteous God transforms our character and conduct to reflect His. As such, the righteous person lives with integrity and humility and acts justly. And that’s not merely giving every man his due but includes showing mercy and compassion to others — the outcast, the oppressed, the weak, the orphans, the widows, the most vulnerable, which also includes the unborn child and our elderly,” he added.

The pastor also encouraged the congregation to use the words of the prophet Micah — “O man, what does the Lord require of you? To have justice, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” — as a guide to living a righteous life, and effecting national change.

Earlier prayers were offered for the country’s political leaders, the Government, public sector leaders, the judiciary, the private sector, community leaders, and leaders in the diplomatic services.

Holness shared a new year’s greeting, wishing the congregation a “victorious year”, which prompted laughter among the congregation. He also read the first lesson from Proverbs 14:26-35.

Golding followed with a brief greeting, expressing hope for a year in which “all your hopes and aspirations” are realised. That also was met with laughter. He read the second lesson from Matthew 5:1-10.

The event also featured uplifting performances by Redemptive Rhythms, whose praise and worship music had the congregation swaying in their seats, adding to the spiritual atmosphere of the event.