My take on the COZA pastor rape allegations:
1. It is still an allegation, he is still innocent until proven guilty by competent court of law.
2. Let us not rush into conclusions or make hasty judgments until we have listened to both parties, review all the necessary facts and evidence available.
3. Everyone has a past they are not so proud of. Our past should not define us. We learn from our past mistakes and move on.
4. No one is perfect, good people make mistakes as well. To err is human.
5. We should stop putting men of God on a pedestal. They are mere ordinary human beings as everyone else. We should stop seeing them as something close to a god to be worshipped. Because of the way they are seen, much is expected from them and therefore when they fall short, it makes headlines and scandalizes and demoralizes people. They are not any different from every human being. They also struggle with temptation, sin and lustful desires. Do not expect much from them so that you are not disappointed when they fail.
6. Rape is evil and should be condemned. It is immoral and ungodly. It is such a repugnant and heinous crime. It is a sin against human free will and consent.
7. Women should not be seen as an object to be used or something to be exploited and taken advantage of. Preying on the weak and the vulnerable does not make you strong but rather a coward. A real man does not rape a woman.
8. Women deserves to be treated with respect, dignity, honor and care.
9. This is a wake up call for all men that the culture of rape and molestation of minors can no longer be tolerated in our society. People are becoming more and more enlightened and educated. Gone are those days people get away with things like this.
10. People of power, wealth and influence should not think that they can get away with things because of their position and money. One day, their evil and yesterday will catch up with them.
11. The more famous and popular you want to be, be aware that the more your mistakes and missteps would also be popular
12. To he or she whom much is given, much is expected.
13. Strong men do not rape women
14. If what was alleged is true, humility demands owning up, taking responsibility and apologizing.
15. If this is a blackmail or a plot to take down the pastor or to extort money from him, then it is not fair.
16. I m sorry for anyone who directly or indirectly have been affected by rape. I can only imagine how traumatizing it can be.
17. In life, we fall and get up and keep moving.
18. Jesus came for sinners and not for those who think that they are righteous. As we point accusing fingers on others, let us also watch our backs, we may not be the best anyways.
19. Finally, I am praying for both parties as this may not be the best of times for them. I pray for their families and that their privacy be respected. Everything happens for a reason. This may be a special time of grace for them to rediscover themselves after this experience and reinvent themselves for better in the public eye even as they further their callings……Put together by Ifee Ifee.(For paid invitations to speak, speaking engagements, remarks, comments and reactions, email me at speakingengagement81@gmail.com)