This is your cross, your responsibility, your mission. You chose to care, to step in and make a difference where others may have walked away. Every day, you must remind yourself why you started—why you decided to take responsibility for the change you want to see in your world. It won’t always be easy; some days, it will feel like a burden too heavy to bear. But greatness comes from persistence. So, commit to showing up, to doing what needs to be done. Carry your cross with faith and courage, knowing that your efforts will lead to transformation.
Throughout history, great leaders and visionaries have carried their crosses, enduring immense challenges to fulfill their missions. Moses, chosen by God, bore the responsibility of leading the Israelites to freedom, facing opposition and doubts with unwavering faith. Similarly, Gideon, though initially hesitant, embraced his divine calling to deliver Israel, relying on God’s strength. In the 19th century, John Brown stood as a bold abolitionist, dedicating his life to ending slavery. Believing he was an instrument of God, Brown took radical steps, even sacrificing his life, to challenge injustice. These examples remind us that carrying our cross often demands courage, sacrifice, and unwavering purpose.
Matthew 16:24 reminds us of Jesus’ charge: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” For Nigeria and the broader West African region to overcome their challenges, this principle must guide us. The road to progress requires individuals willing to deny personal comfort and embrace the sacrifices needed to drive change. Like Moses, Gideon, and John Brown, we need visionaries who prioritize the greater good over personal gain. By leaving their comfort zones and taking bold steps, such individuals can lead their communities into a future of justice, peace, and development.
