The Curate of Christ the King Catholic Parish in Kabale Municipality, Rev. Fr. Nelson Agaba, has called on Christians and families to prioritize character and integrity over physical appearance and social status when choosing leaders and assigning responsibilities.
Fr. Agaba made the remarks on Sunday during his homily at the first morning Mass at Christ the King Parish in Kabale, where he cautioned against the growing tendency in society to judge individuals based on outward appearance rather than their values and ability to serve.
Drawing from the biblical story in the First Book of Samuel, Fr. Agaba explained how the prophet Samuel was sent by God to the home of Jesse to anoint a king. Although Jesse presented his strong and physically impressive sons, God rejected them and instead chose David, the youngest son who had initially been overlooked.
According to the priest, David’s humble role as a shepherd prepared him for leadership, demonstrating that responsibility, dedication and character are stronger indicators of leadership potential than physical strength or social standing.
Fr. Agaba said the biblical example offers an important lesson to modern families and communities that often base leadership and inheritance decisions on superficial considerations. He also urged Christians to remain attentive to God’s guidance, noting that leadership and purpose are not determined by background but by one’s willingness to serve.
He further encouraged believers to remain steadfast in their faith despite the many challenges they face in daily life.
Meanwhile, the Rector of St. Paul’s Seminary Rushoroza, Rev. Fr. Augustine Tumushime, used his homily during the second Mass to urge Christians to trust in God’s purpose even in moments of suffering.
Fr. Tumushime reminded believers that hardships such as sickness or misfortune are not always punishments for personal sin but can serve as opportunities for God’s power to be revealed.
He explained that many people often associate suffering with wrongdoing, yet the teachings of Jesus show that difficult situations can reveal God’s glory and strengthen the faith of believers.
Referring to the Gospel story of the man born blind, Fr. Tumushime said Jesus used the miracle to demonstrate that He is the “light of the world,” bringing spiritual illumination to those living in darkness.
“The healed man’s faith grew gradually. At first he knew Jesus simply as a man, later recognized Him as a prophet, and eventually acknowledged Him as Lord and worshiped Him,” Fr. Tumushime said.
He added that obedience and humility before God bring blessings, noting that the blind man followed Jesus’ instruction to wash in the pool of Siloam, an act that led to his healing.
Fr. Tumushime also warned Christians against rigid religious attitudes that can prevent them from recognizing God’s work. He said the Pharisees focused more on the perceived violation of Sabbath rules than on the miracle itself, leading them to reject the truth before them.
He encouraged Christians to remain courageous in sharing their faith, drawing inspiration from the healed man who boldly testified about what Jesus had done for him despite pressure from religious authorities.
//Cue in: “When we are talking of darkness….
Cue Out: ……and try to learn what pleases God”. //
