The Slavery of Contentment

September 1st, 2009 by yohan abeynaike

Readers of the Daily Mirror newspaper last month (18^th August) woke up to the headline news that Sri Lanka had topped the list among Asians (93%) “most satisfied with their lives”. At first glance this appears to be reason to celebrate, however, the irony of the situation was exemplified when comparing this story with the other headlines that day. Some of the headlines on the front page included the ‘leaking’ of the A/Level biology paper, the inaction of the police to arrest a senior officer alleged to have aided in an assault case, the pathetic conditions in the IDP camps after the recent rains and the alleged attempt by a government minister to monopolize a lucrative bus route.

Matthew summarizes the message of Jesus at the start of his public ministry, stating “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near” (Mt. 4:17). The Kingdom of God is an inclusive community of peoples from all nations living in harmony with God and each other under the Lordship of Jesus. He goes on to record a sermon outlining the kind of society that reflects God’s kingly rule in a fallen world. God’s approval lies on those who are mourning against their own sin and the effects of sin in society (5:4). He calls on his disciples to stand up for justice, to be merciful and be peacemakers in conflict situations. This counter cultural lifestyle leads them to be salt of the earth and light of the world, he added. He encourages them to love the unlovable, even their enemies to show the character of God’s kingdom.

In the light of this we must ask ourselves whether we can and should be satisfied and optimistic in Sri Lanka these days. Maybe it is precisely because we are so satisfied with our lives that dishonesty, perversion of justice and simple inconsideration for those who are suffering eludes us. Is it only when we are direct victims of injustice and suffering that we long to see a different Sri Lanka? If we want to build a society free from dishonesty, injustice and oppression, then isn’t it time that we stop treating these as necessary evils but be uncomfortable regardless of who the victims are. The illusion of comfort and satisfaction in this context serves only to allow the status quo to continue. Maybe most Sri Lankans are satisfied and optimistic but I hope that those wishing for God’s rule to be present in this earth join me in taking our stand with the 7% of discontents in Sri Lanka.

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