By Morkporkpor Anku, GNA
Accra, April 27, GNA – The Reverend Professor Daniel Y. Bruce has attributed rising conflict and misunderstandings in society to unmet expectations and urged Christians to align their lives with the expectations of God.
He made the remarks during a sermon on Sunday at the induction and welcome service of Reverend D.N.A. Affram as District Pastor of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church Ghana, Kaneshie District.
The sermon was on the theme: “The Expectation of the Shepherd.”
He said just as individuals expected honesty, faithfulness and responsibility from one another, failure to meet such expectations often led to disappointment, anger and broken relationships.
Rev. Bruce explained that the same principle applied in the relationship between God and mankind, adding that believers could not expect divine blessings if they did not live according to God’s will.
“If you are not meeting the expectations of God, how do you expect Him to bless you?” he asked.
He said God’s expectations for humanity included kindness, generosity and care for one another, noting that those values were essential for peaceful coexistence.
Rev. Bruce called on the Church to establish strong welfare systems to support members and promote the propagation of the Gospel.
He said God’s blessings were tied to obedience and the willingness to meet His expectations.
Using practical illustrations, he noted that unmet expectations in everyday life often resulted in conflict and dissatisfaction.
He said Christians must, therefore, reflect on their lives and ensure they were living in accordance with God’s standards.
Rev. Bruce reminded the congregation that Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, also had expectations of His followers.
He urged believers to practise kindness, generosity and mutual support, referencing Proverbs 11:25, which teaches that generosity leads to prosperity.
He advised Christians to identify and work on their weaknesses to avoid self-imposed suffering and strained relationships.
Rev. Bruce charged Rev. Affram to shepherd the congregation with humility, patience and compassion, emphasised that effective pastoral leadership required sympathy, tolerance and a gentle approach in guiding the flock.
Rev. Affram, on his part, expressed gratitude to God and the E.P Church Ghana for the opportunity to serve, saying the induction served as a formalisation of an already established relationship with the Kaneshie District congregation.
He acknowledged the support of his family, particularly his wife, as well as colleagues in ministry, adding that their encouragement and sacrifices had sustained him throughout his journey, including periods of difficulty and public criticism.
He outlined five key commitments to guide his leadership: dedication to prayer, faithful preaching of the Word, maintaining a strong pastoral presence among members, upholding integrity in all aspects of life, and fostering partnership with the congregation.
Rev. Affram called on members of the Church to support him through cooperation and constructive correction and prayer, emphasising that building a strong and impactful ministry required collective effort and shared responsibility.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Agnes Boye-Doe