by Mark Ibigbami GreatMark | Mar 17, 2018 | Uncategorized |
Some religious leaders and followers are better named as: “Hopeless”, “Frauds”, or “Silly.” And to make matter worst, many of them either don’t realize how silly they are or they are blinded by religious fanaticism or self deceit. Trust me, I do not mean to be harsh or judgmental in anyway.
Some of these religious leaders reminds me of the Pharisees and religious scholars of the Bible days who reckoned themselves as the custodian of knowledge, and pride themselves as personal assistants of the most High God. This false knowledge and self aggravation leads to pomposity and disrespect of other people’s opinions. Thus, creating a spasm and class between the leaders and their followers.
This phenomenon often results into giving undue or over-zealous reverence to such leaders, to the extent that their words, and instructions becomes more important than God’s oracle. This is unfortunate to say the least, as the honors due God is then bestowed on mortal man. For instance, rather than follow God’s instructions, what you hear is, “Papa or Daddy” said. To the extent that people cringe at the mention of such names.
I do not promote disrespect of men of God, as this would be disregarding God’s instruction to treat with respect those who truly represent God. However, this does not mean one would adore and adorn them with the glories and accolades that belongs to God. Sadly, many followers know and honor the words of their spiritual leaders even more than knowing God and honoring his words.
With reference to this, I will like to delve into the issue of offering and Tithes. The issue of whether tithing, that is, ten percent of ones income, is necessary or not is not a new phenomenon. One valid reference is seen in the New Testament when Jesus had a confrontation with the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law. Knowing their believes and disposition about tithing, Jesus challenged them to stop being hypocritical about the act.
In rebuking them on why they neglect the weightier part of God’s command, he said, “You’re hopeless, you religion scholars and Pharisees! Frauds! You keep meticulous account books, tithing on every nickel and dime you get, but on the meat of God’s Law, things like fairness and compassion and commitment—the absolute basics!—you carelessly take it or leave it.” Matthew 23:23.
He however commended their being meticulous about book-keeping, nitpicking over commas and semicolons, like practically carrying the scriptures on their forehead and body to show everyone how religious they are. In addition, they brag over the payment of tithes and offerings, and endeavor to keep proper records of their tithes, so as to win man’s approval. Yet, they neglect the basic requirements of the law, things like fairness and compassion and commitment, which he described as the absolute basics!
In Biology, we learn that there are micro and macro elements and both are necessary for the growth and development of the body. The micro elements which are required in small quantities, such as Iron, Copper, Iodine etc, are equally as important as the macro elements, such as Sodium, Magnesium etc, which are needed in large quantities. For a healthy and balanced growth, both micro and macro elements are important to the body and no one should be ignored for the other.
Christ’s submission on this is that the micro elements of the law is paying of the ten percent (tithe) and offerings, whereas the macro elements of the law is compassion, fairness, love and justice. In essence, the macro elements of the law, which includes love for God and humanity is as important as paying of tithe and offerings. Just like the human body would be deficient of adequate growth and development, a man who ignore the weightier part of the law will be deficient in his relationship with God and man.
The religious leaders and their followers were rebuked for placing more importance on the minor requirements of the law while neglecting the major elements of love. Thus, they minor on major and major on minor. This is not acceptable to God who wants us to take care of the needy and show compassion, and demonstrate loving kindness, which is the heartbeat of God.
Let me mention that issues about how men of God enrich themselves with wealth by their church members who are committed to tithing, as well as the debates on whether members should pay the ten percents or not will never cease to generate controversies among people. I think a deeper understanding of the issues of church finance vis-a-vis tithes, offerings and donations and God’s directives would help stand in the position of being devoid of sentiments.
For those who have never been interested in paying of tithe, this perception will be justifiable. Some make reference to this passage and say that Christ downplayed the act of tithing by his statement. No, this is untrue! He taught that the sacrifice of love and compassion is more rewarding than the fat offering given in church. God will be more pleased with showing kindness to the poor and the needy than keeping good record of tithing.
Jesus however did not condemn the ten percent, he only frowned at doing one and avoiding the other. Just as the micro and micro elements are vital in the human body, even though one is needed in smaller quantities and the other in large quantities, the ten percent, and showing of mercy are both important but the latter is the major, and should not be compromised.
In summary, any sacrifice not borne out of love is unacceptable to God, and He alone sees the intent of the heart of man. He doesn’t need our money or gifts, he only accepts a heart of reverence and a life that is first sold out to Him.
Finally, religious leaders should ensure they major on showing of mercy, compassion and love over acquisition of wealth and “turning stones (people) to bread” for their own personal advantage. Also, hose who give should give generously, and not by compulsion. Likewise, those who receive should use it judiciously to the glory of God.
Like I said in my article, MR. SOLO AND THE BLANK CHEQUE, let us fear the Lord’s displeasure, hope in his mercy, and walk in his commandments.
You are winning! Yes, we are winning!
GreatMark
by Mark Ibigbami GreatMark | Mar 13, 2018 | Uncategorized |
In many parts of the world, cry of anguish, pain and sorrow have never ceased to be heard, especially amongst the faithfuls and bonafide followers of the famous king and master, who having fell from his throne few years back is now declared dead. Although, celebrations, pomp and pageantry area also witnessed in many part of the world, as the news of the death of the notorious hellish king rent the air.
A top aid of “The Symbol” as he is fondly called, who broke the news said that before his demise, the tyrant dissolved his cabinet, and advised the shareholders to consider their investments non and void. He was however said to have assured his followers that their dividends will be paid in full in the near future.
Despite the assurance, the addicted followers have expressed utter disappointment over how their acclaimed master failed to live up to expectations and has thus displayed unfaithfulness to his promises.
Our correspondents who spoke to members of his caucus reported that those who have hitherto lived in worldly affluence have expressed wrath over his sudden death, saying that the failed promise of worldly riches and inheritance is clearly a mirage.
The implication is that all Satan’s faithfuls would become jobless, hopeless and in utter desperation. Sadly, the rate of unemployment is expected to greatly increase as a result of the sudden and untimely death of the world’s famous tyrant and deceiver.
As this news gladdens many who have been continually terrified by the nefarious activities of this tyrant, many have testified that evil would stop in the world. Some have also expressed happiness at the spate of killings, suicide, crime, immoralities, diseases, wars to mention a few would be no more.
Hey, this is utopia! The accuser of men, and the father of all lies, Satan has been appointed for judgement at the time that God has set. The devil will be captured only after the saints have been raptured. However, satan knows that his time is close and as such he continues to vehemently fights to make men become enemies of God. Where do you stand? On whose side are you?
In one of my previous articles, titled BROKEN NEWS: THE ANCIENT CITY OF RETARD RECEIVES 50 MILLION NEW MIGRANTS, I noted that for those who desire a safer, peaceful and moral society, you would have wished this happens here, so that wickedness would diminish and the world would be a better place. But this is a moral utopia!
This will not happen in this world but it is a shadow of what is to come. You’re winning! Yes, we are winning!
GreatMark
*Broken News is a publication of Happy Valley Agency which seeks to examine political and moral utopias that would foster positive change.
by Mark Ibigbami GreatMark | Mar 10, 2018 | Uncategorized |
As the lives of many innocent citizens are constantly being subjected to security threats, and many are being sacrificed on the altar of politics, ethnicity and religious extremism. Vampires have beeen empowered to ravage our land yet the preoccupation of many of our leaders is the 2019 General elections.
The fire on the mountain is now consuming how homes but many of our leaders don’t seem to have the decisive will to tackle the vampires who are ravaging our land in a bid to actualizing their selfish agenda. Whatsoever their plans are, and no matter how it is presented, inasmuch as the lives and properties of people are less important to them, there desire is evil, inhuman and senseless!
“We shall not leave any stone unturned…” That is the usual phrase used whenever grave issues are expected to be severely dealt with or whenever results are expected. But scarcely as this ever been the case in my country, even when lots of time is spent on such cases. Likewise, in many parts of the world, crime cases are hardly ever resloved successfully.
One massacre and then another, and yet another. Whenever we think that it is over then another news of herdsmen attacks, kidnaping and abduction fills the air. Indeed, the vampires are ravaging our lands and decimating us in droves, and no one seems to be concerned.
The latest strategy by these vampires was a peaceful but total occupation of a community and the resultant mass displacement of the ancestral villagers. Apparently, the takeover is subtle, yet we are continually assured that the security agents are in control and investigations are ongoing to cub this plague. But there’s still fire on the mountain, and is now burning in our homes.
But Just after the public speeches; after the so-called strategic meetings, then we hear of another attack, followed by another deployment of forces, and then withdrawal, then another abduction, capture, killings and the cycle continues. Again, this is followed by another series of investigations, deliberations and consultations, and yet the stones remains unturned.
Just in: “Another 5 dead in Plateau State after unknown gunmen and suspected herdsman attacked a community on late Thursday night.” Again, our security agents have said, “We have confirmed the unfortunate incident but we won’t leave any stone unturned in bringing perpetrators to book. Which book?
This is the usual but annoying responds of security forces but this book never gets filled especially considering the spate of violent killings and heinous crimes going on in the country. Most times, it is either we don’t get to know the perpetrators or innocent persons are apprehended, and made to suffer for the wrong of evil men.
Likewise, the stones covering crimes has always proved difficult to turn, even though they attempt to turn it everytime a crime case is reported. I wonder how massive and gigantic this stone is that it has resisted an overturn.
Braking news: “Government provides Tractors for farmers…” Food security, provision of tractors and what have you. On which land will these tractors be used? On the land that have been destroyed by herdsmen or the one that have been occupied by vicious vampires? Which farmers would use the tractors? The ones that can longer go to their farms or the ones that live continually under the fear of death? Search me!
Government can provide security of lifes and properties. This is their primary responsibility and they are not expected to fail. We know that whenever the government is determined to achieve a feat, they will, if they set their minds to do it. Those at the helm of affairs should not only go back to the drawing board as usual, but should quickly implement lasting strategies that would guarantee the security of lives and properties.
Every human life is very precious to God and important to the world. No human life is worth being sacrificed on the altar of ethnicity, religion, politics or for economic reasons. Those who are aggrieved should be called to order and grievances settled amicably without sentiments or undue Favour.
Though, we know we are approaching the end of world and the rate of inhumanity and wickedness is expected to be on the increase (Matthew 24). Yet, our government should not fail to implement policies and enforce measures that will ensure that lives and properties are adequately secured and the spate of killings minimized.
The vampires cannot overcome the power of our government if they have the tenacity to fulfill their mandate. Truth will always prevail over evil no matter how long the latter thrives.
You are winning! Yes, we are winning!
Also read SEE A DESTRUCTIVE EPIDEMIC RAVAGING THE LAND
Greatmark
by Mark Ibigbami GreatMark | Feb 27, 2018 | Uncategorized |
BROKEN NEWS:
Whilst considering an article about a recent incident surrounding the Snake and monkey, I recalled the 1979 Hong Kong martial arts film titled “Snake in the Monkey’s Shadow (a.k.a. Hou hsing kou shou a.k.a. Snake Fist vs. the Dragon) as directed by Cheung Sum. Rather than chose this title, I chose to call this piece “Monkey in the Snake’s Shadow, based on the sequence of the events.”
The River valley has in the past weeks witnessed some bizarre incidents that have left citizens dumbfounded and flabbergasted. “Wonders, as they say, shall never end.” Indeed, in the River valley, there never seems to be an end to strange happenings. You can always be sure of waking up to one sad news or the other.
Reports of kidnap, suicide, fuel scarcity, workers strikes, terrorist attacks, political party imbroglio,and of course dramas of the exploits of the economic crime fighters over corrupt citizens is often on the front burner. As a matter of fact, these appears not to be news anymore because of the frequencies and especially the distractive elements of such news.
Recently, the news of a well orchestrated coup d’ etat that saw animals united in their struggles against humans generated debates all over the city. We learnt that the animals were determined to take over for economic reasons. Endeared by the spate of public funds looting and corrupt practices, and angered by the feelings of neglect, they have chosen to take over the streets in angry demonstrations.
This take over is coming on the heels of disappointment arising from the complaints from the burrowing families who have been prevented from gaining access to buried loots because of the tight security around it. The knowledge of the fact that monies are being buried necessitated the call for sovereign national conference of the animals to discuss ways to get their own share of the national cake by any means possible.
Thus, at the meeting of the representatives of the animal species, it was unanimously agreed that snakes and the monkeys be the first to perform the feat. On why the Monkeys and snakes were chosen to unleash havoc on custodian of public funds, the spokesperson of the committee said that the sly and subtle nature of the chosen species was one reason for their choice.
Furthermore, Cattles who had earlier taken over the streets, and have also forcefully taken over farmlands were motivated to continue their exploits until they posses the lands of their defenseless victims. Apparently, the animals seem to have been accorded more privileges that have seen them constitute public nuisance.
It is no longer news that some animals are exerting their influence on the public, and are being linked with swallowing of public funds. First, it was the snake, and then the monkey. Who is next? search me!
We hope the River Valley Government will quickly deploy troops that would stem this evil phenomenon ravaging our land so that our economy will not be controlled by snakes, monkeys and other animals.
What news is next? Anyway, whatver befalls us, we are winning. Yes, we are winning!
For more on the public nuisance of cattles read, ONLY CATTLES ARE ELIGIBLE TO VOTE DURING THE NEXT GENERAL ELECTIONS.” -HAPPY VALLEY GOVT.
GreatMark
Broken News is a satirical online publication of a fictitious Happy Valley Agency which seeks to examine societal utopias that could foster positive change.
*Broken news features every Tuesday.
by Mark Ibigbami GreatMark | Feb 20, 2018 | Uncategorized |
The Highest Common factor of All achievers:
“Victory often goes to the army that makes the least mistakes, not the most brilliant plans.” I supposed Charles de Gaulle got an insight from the inspiring words of the wisest King that ever lived- King Solomon Jesse.
By reason of his experiential knowledge and experience spanning all life’s ramifications, he testified thus: “Here is something else I have learned: The fastest runners and the greatest heroes don’t always win races and battles. Wisdom, intelligence, and skill don’t always make you healthy, rich, or popular. We each have our own share of misfortune. .” Ecclesiastes 9:11.
He reckoned that, as much as efforts and preparations are needed to achieve success, the common factor to all achievers is bad luck, which sooner or later happens to all. This means every man has a potential for failure no matter how hard he works. However, the assurance of victory is only in God, the Alpha and the Omega of all things. He’s the architect of of life; He opens closed doors and shuts opened doors. Nothing is beyond him.
Man can achieve success only if God permits. Remember the story of Babel. Even when His beloved is asleep or helpless, God still works for him to give him success and victory, if of course he is in right standing with God. The Psalmist wrote, “Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain. It is vain for you to rise early, For He gives [blessings] to His beloved even in his sleep.” PSALM 127:1-2
Some people claim they are self sufficient; they think and believe their achievements are results of their affluence, efforts, intelligence, or power. But the truth is, they can not achieve beyond what God permits. Man at its best is only a mist which appears for a while and then vanishes. God is sovereign and His ways are perfect!
With an absolute trust in God, sophisticated weapon of warfare, canal intelligence or strategies may not matter. It was said of King David that, “So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, …I Samuel 17: 50. God’s ways are certainly not our ways. When He says Yes, no one dare say No!
Dear friend, the highest common factor of every achiever remains time and chance -bad luck, which eventually happens to all. The way to sure and rewarding achievement is to acknowledge God in all your ways, and lean not on your own understanding. Achievements without heavenly value is futility and misfortune!
Victory is still possible; ur mistakes can still turn to miracles. In my article, WINNING ATTITUDE – TRANSFORMING YOUR STRUGGLES TO SUCCESS, I noted that, “the conflict you’re in might be an indication of an impending success. So don’t give in, use the faith lifeline. Believe, persist, endure, & achieve!
You’re winning! Yea, we are winning!
GreatMark
by Mark Ibigbami GreatMark | Feb 14, 2018 | Uncategorized |
My Lover bought me a Love-suit:
“He excused me from a busy schedule and drove me in his car to a lonely hill where he showed me what he called the evidence of his love. Truly, he had often told me how much he loved me, but I never believed until I saw the huge investment he made just for me.
I’ve always been the busy type; and so much a career person. And to make it worst, I’ve also got a very busy and indefatigable boss who practically work round the clock. So, the least on my mind any day is definitely not the issue of love or any serious relationship.
My day wasn’t any different on this date. I was in a business engagement and I didn’t think I could excuse myself to attend to him, even though I was already bored by the monotonous activities in the office. Unlike me, on this very day, I was already having a soft spot for him, especially considering that I had severally broke his heart and have often turned down many of his dates.
Fortunately for him, and of course for me, I had my mind made up for a getaway from the many hours of labor and heavy laden occasioned by long hours of business deliberations. Mind you, with my boss, you have no mind of your own. He more or less possesses his employees such that they don’t have any choice than to do his bidding. If you say he is a tyrant, you might not be far away from the truth.”
I know you would wonder why I remained in this kind of a job that never give me the pleasure of relationship or even rest? Perhaps, because I love my career and I want to gain the world if that was ever possible! Besides, the promises by my boss is so endearing that even you wouldn’t want to play with such a life-long privileges.
While struggling to look for a way of escape, all my options closing in. Just then my phone beeped, it was Hansel. He sent me a sms to meet him at our reception for lunch. I struggled with this request, but I finally joined my lover, who gave me a treat and bought me a lovely and expensive suit. Mind you, It wasn’t on St. Valentine’s day but it was a day I cannot forget in a rush.
I haven’t had such fun in a long while. Gladly, this encounter totally changed my perception about life, work and love. It was for me an adventure to self-discovery. The feeling of true love was restored to me, and my thoughts about life was renewed, and I saw clearly the need to embrace a deeper relationship with my new lover.
Before now, I had thought that opening up to love would further hurt me, especially considering my past experiences. But, trust me, now I know the true meaning of love. I have found a lover that can help me bear my burdens, and not add to my worries. His love lifted me from the miry clay of worldly pursuits to a life free of struggles and canal lusts.
Few weeks after I opened up my life to Hansel, I saw the need to resign my appointment until I’m able to find a better job. I actually waited for 2 months, and during this time I applied to several places. But unknowingly to me, my lover had opened for me a new business, my dream business. Then I became the CEO of a fashion house, where I had employed twenty workers by the end of the first year.
This was how my status changed: I became the owner of a flourishing business, an employer of labour, and more importantly I found the true meaning of love, and now I am a proud mother of a beautiful damsel. I am Mrs. Agnes Bricks
Dear friend, the story of Agnes is a story of someone who chose the way of life, peace and rest in Jesus Christ. A relationship with Him will deliver you from the burden of sin and condemnation. He promised to give rest to all who truly seek him, and His love is eternal and not seasonal. You too can have a new life if you would decide to embrace him today.
When you do this, This is what God will do for you: He will cloth you with a new garment, a love-suit, and make your life a brand new life. “So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline.” Colossians 3:12. Christ’s love is evident in his death on the cross. His sacrifice is borne out of his undying love.
Finally, always ensure that regardless of else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without Be always on Love-suit. You’re winning! Yes, we are winning!
Click the link to read more on Valentine’s day: IT WAS A NIGHT OF FUN…BUT JAKE DIDN’T KNOW IT WOULD COST HIM HIS LIFE!
GreatMark
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