If Jesus visited Uganda, would he be pleased or disappointed?

Confabulating on the arrival of Jesus in Uganda invites a profound exploration of the nation’s spiritual landscape. At first glance, Uganda appears to be a vibrant tapestry of faith, with an ever-growing number of churches and a populace seemingly devoted to religious practices.

However, one might wonder: what would Jesus think upon seeing the multitude of congregations gathered in worship? Would he be heartened by the evident passion for spirituality, or would he be troubled by what lies beneath the surface?

While the sight of worshippers filling churches suggests a deep commitment to faith, many questions can be raised about the authenticity of this devotion.

While many individuals quote the Bible and use biblical phrases with alarming frequency, a case study of the same reveals the use of religion as a mere facade to facilitate actions that contradict the very teachings the Bible espouses. Consider the troubling reality of rampant corruption and exploitation that permeates society. What would Jesus say to those who use scripture as a shield for their unethical practices?

In a country where land grabbing and theft occur even within church circles, how would he respond to the hypocrisy of those who claim to be godly while engaging in such immoral acts? This troubling phenomenon extends beyond mere hypocrisy; it manifests in broad daylight theft occurring within church walls.

In some congregations, sacred spaces have been commodified, with items like “holy water,” pens claimed to guarantee academic success, and “holy rice” marketed as blessings sold to the faithful. One has to wonder: what would Jesus do upon witnessing these transactions? Would he not recall the merchants in the temple and their exploitation of faith for profit? Would he not weep for the congregants being manipulated and exploited in their search for hope?

Moreover, the situation grows more alarming when we consider the exploitation of the already vulnerable.

Many sell their only possessions to contribute to the pastor’s growing wealth, leading us to question: what would Jesus think of leaders who accumulate luxury vehicles and marry multiple wives while their followers sacrifice their livelihoods to sustain the same?

How would he address the disparity between the opulence of some church leaders and the struggles of their congregants?

Turning to the political landscape, we see leaders who often prioritise personal gain over the welfare of their communities.

What would Jesus say to those who pilfer resources intended for the vulnerable? How would he react to politicians who take iron sheets meant for impoverished families, using them for their own benefit while drawing hefty salaries?

Turning to the Judiciary, what would Jesus do about some of our judges, who own churches and further engage in selling judgments to the highest bidder, creating a class of untouchables who oppress innocent people and further request them to take them to court? Would He not remind us of the biblical teachings on justice and integrity, calling out those who exploit the vulnerable for their own advantage?

The biblical narratives provide a poignant framework for these reflections. When Jesus wept over the merchants in the temple and condemned the commercialisation of sacred spaces. How would he respond to the modern-day equivalent, where churches become marketplaces?

Surely, he would call for a return to the sanctity of faith, urging leaders and congregations alike to prioritise genuine spiritual growth over material gain. In my well-thought-out opinion, If Jesus were to visit Uganda today, He would likely question the integrity of both leaders and followers alike.

His message would likely be one of repentance and a call to action, urging individuals to reclaim their faith and ensure that it serves as a source of strength and community upliftment.

The answers to these questions compel us to examine our values and actions, challenge us to strive for a faith that embodies compassion, integrity, and justice.

Gukiina Patrick Musoke Lawyer, author and [email protected]