In a powerful sermon delivered during President John Dramani Mahama’s fellowship with the clergy, Archbishop Nicholas Duncan-Williams offered a stirring message of leadership, humility, and righteousness.
Speaking before the gathered ministers, government officials, and members of the clergy, the respected preacher emphasized the importance of forgiveness, avoiding vindictiveness in leadership, and staying true to the principles of justice and fairness.
His message, deeply rooted in biblical wisdom, resonated with many in attendance as he drew on historical examples, including the life of Nelson Mandela, to illustrate the virtues of true leadership.
Archbishop Duncan-Williams began by stressing that true leadership requires the ability to let go of past grievances. He recounted Mandela’s decision to leave behind bitterness after his release from 27 years of imprisonment, refusing to let resentment dictate his leadership.
“If I walk through that door to freedom and still carry the burden of bitterness, I am not free,” the archbishop quoted Mandela. He urged President Mahama to adopt the same spirit of magnanimity, warning that a leader who harbors grudges ultimately imprisons himself.
Drawing from his personal observations of Mahama over the years, Duncan-Williams commended the President for his humility and kindness, even towards those who had wronged him in the past. He recounted instances where Mahama showed grace to former allies-turned-opponents, highlighting that true power lies in the ability to forgive rather than seek retribution.
“You have remained a man who does not discriminate,” the archbishop noted. “Whether someone is in government or not, you continue to treat them with respect. Please, stay that way. Do not change.”
The archbishop also delivered a strong admonition against leaders using power to settle personal scores. He cautioned against the temptation to use political authority to punish perceived enemies, stating that such actions ultimately harm the nation rather than serve justice.
“When leaders use their position to settle scores, the consequences are far-reaching,” he warned. “Government is not a tool for personal revenge; it is a platform for service.”
Duncan-Williams urged Mahama’s administration to focus on governance that uplifts the people, rather than engaging in political retribution. He advised ministers and officials to follow the President’s example of humility and avoid arrogance in their positions.
Referencing Hebrews 6:10, which states that “God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love,” the archbishop emphasized the importance of remembering those who have contributed to one’s journey. He lamented that many leaders forget their origins once they attain power, warning that such ingratitude is a form of unrighteousness.
“Anyone who forgets where they came from is demonstrating ingratitude and unrighteousness,” he declared. He challenged those in government to remember their humble beginnings and to govern with a heart for the people who entrusted them with leadership.
In a striking recollection, Duncan-Williams recounted an era when a previous Ghanaian president surrounded himself with a powerful aide who essentially controlled access to him. This aide, he said, wielded so much influence that he made key government decisions and even overruled the President himself.
“There was a time when people stopped seeking an audience with the President and instead went to this individual because they knew he had the final say,” he revealed. The archbishop used this example to caution Mahama against allowing unelected figures to hijack his leadership.
“There can only be one President at a time,” he reminded the gathering, stressing the need for Mahama to ensure that his administration remains transparent and accountable.
Archbishop Duncan-Williams concluded his sermon with a call for leadership that reflects righteousness and justice. He urged the clergy to continue praying for the President and his team, emphasizing that spiritual guidance is essential for governance.
“The church must continue to be a voice of righteousness, unity, and progress,” he declared. “Let us guide our leaders with wisdom and prayer so that Ghana can thrive.”
The archbishop’s message struck a chord with the audience, reinforcing the values of humility, integrity, and service. As President Mahama continues his tenure, the words of Duncan-Williams serve as a guiding beacon, reminding him that true leadership is measured not by power, but by the ability to lead with grace, forgiveness, and a commitment to the greater good of the nation.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
