April 9th is approaching, a day that has left its mark on our consciousness as the day on which our nation fought for freedom and regained its independence. Twenty years have passed since then. Times have changed and the problems we face have changed as well. However, as was the case in the past, now too this country faces dangers which each of us must spare no effort in avoiding.

In official statements, both the government and opposition rule out violence as they believe that their strength lies in the use of peaceful methods. This is truly the case. Our Lord Jesus Christ teaches us to solve all problems in peace, kindness and love. However the danger of provocation cannot be ruled out.

It is for this reason that I am once again appealing to the government not to allow the use of force against its own people.

I call on the opposition to utilise only peaceful means of protest.

I call on the police and the military to remember that your neighbour, your flesh and blood will be standing before you.

I call on each and every participant in the rally to remember that any form of aggression, including verbal abuse, is unacceptable and that any manifestation of this must be stopped by you yourselves.

I would like to address the ethnic minority population of Georgia. We have many ill-wishers and so it cannot be ruled out that you could also become targets for provocation aimed at creating new sources of tension. You are children of Georgia so I hope that you will demonstrate your love and loyalty to this country and will protect it if need be.

Let me remind you of the Words of our Lord: “All who take the sword will perish by the sword” (Matt 26:52)

The deliberate or negligent actions of individuals that place our country’s future in the balance and cause bloodshed will prove to be a burden for these people and their descendents. God forbid!

All of us, the government, the opposition, the people and the Church must do what is right and what our country needs.

Let us not be radical and let us remember that the good of the country is more important than our personal well being and prosperity.

Grace to you and peace from Him who is, who was and who is to come. (Rev 1:4)
Amen!

8 April 2009