CRN|Lilian Ochoo, Torit|The Catholic Bishop of Tombura-Yambio Diocese, Most Rev. Edward Hiiboro Kussala, has encouraged people to do good to others without expecting anything in return.
Bishop Hiiboro said acts of goodness should come from a sincere heart, and that helping others should not be driven by a desire for recognition, appreciation or material reward. He added that Christians should long for heavenly reward for their good deeds rather than the temporary rewards and material gain the world offers.
“We should not expect rewards when we help people, because what we have belongs to the One who created the earth. Therefore, we need to share those resources generously with people in need,” he said.
He acknowledged that people sometimes feel disappointed when their kindness is not met with thanks. “You may sometimes do good to people and, at the end, not get a thank you. That is human nature,” he said. “But do not expect appreciation every time, because God has given us a lot. Let us go ahead with doing good, because Jesus is the Judge.”
The Bishop also urged the faithful to look out for one another, to seek out fellow community members whenever they notice their absence, and to rejoice together when they meet again.
He further appealed to the youth to be grateful, embrace positive values, become responsible members of society, and use their talents and abilities to make a positive difference in the lives of their families and others.
“Remain grateful and thankful, and show the good things in you, because God has provided you with everything,” he said. “Especially to the young people, look at what the elders have invested and try to change the poverty situation of your families.”
Bishop Hiiboro emphasized the importance of love, care, unity and solidarity among Christians.
He made the remarks during his homily on Tuesday morning at the ongoing Annual Plenary Assembly of the Sudan and South Sudan Catholic Bishops’ Conference in Torit.