Fiji’s new Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says Christ’s teachings provided the way that a country of many communities and beliefs can co-exist in unity.
In his Christmas message, he said he wanted to reach out to all Fijians in the spirit of this wonderful celebration.
He said Jesus Christ offered salvation to humanity and the gift of life everlasting.
“In the 33 years of His time on earth, He would spread a unique message of love and mercy; peace, forgiveness, hope, tolerance and faith,” Mr Rabuka said.
“Driven by love for His Father and the mission entrusted to Him, Jesus sowed the seeds of a faith that would spread throughout the world.
“Those seeds were carried to Fiji by missionaries.
“They took root, and the light of Christ began to shine in our islands. It shines for us now as brightly as ever.
“It changed the way we thought and acted and gave us a standard for perfect living. While we find it difficult to meet Christ’s expectations we do not give up.
“We keep worshipping; we fall and pick ourselves up, fall again, and then get down on our knees seeking forgiveness.
“We look upwards to Him and He draws us on.”
He said we are enjoined to be good neighbours; to help the poor and needy and to do the best we can for Fiji with the talents God has given us.
“Let us live as good neighbours and acknowledge we are duty-bound to forgive our enemies and those who hurt us.
“If you are gripped by sadness, nursing broken hearts, and dealing with many difficulties, be strong, take heart, the Prince of Peace is here!”
