Pray for Zuma - Buchan
2010-03-07 23:17
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Pretoria - If President Jacob Zuma had attended the "Turn back to God" gathering on Saturday, Angus Buchan would have encouraged him and offered him guidance, but would not have judged him.
Buchan, the evangelist from Greytown, was one of the main speakers at the gathering held in the gardens below Zuma's office at the Union Buildings.
Earlier, when the organisers were still hoping Zuma would attend the gathering, Buchan was looking forward to speaking to Zuma in Zulu from the stage.
With the President not attending on Saturday, Buchan was asked what he would have said to Zuma.
The first thing the President would hear is: "We're praying for you."
Buchan said that Zuma is the President, end of story, and he will pray for Zuma like the Bible says he should.
He would also add that if Zuma keeps his focus on the Lord, God will not forsake him.
Look ahead
If Zuma were to use the Bible as a textbook, he wouldn't stumble or make mistakes.
"He should know that there are more South Africans praying for him than he realises," Buchan said.
Buchan also believes Zuma should look to the future, not the past.
"As a farmer - since he grew up on a farm - he should know that you shouldn't look back if you want to plough in a straight line," Buchan said.
He would also tell the President that compromise is not an option.
The nation's Christians, who are in the majority, want the truth.
Respect
"In the belief that God will lead him to govern the country according to Christian ethics, I, personally, am very optimistic about the nation's future.
"But young people want to see strong Christian leadership."
According to Buchan, that's all he would say to Zuma.
When asked whether he would refer directly to issues such as Zuma's polygamy, Buchan answered: "No."
However, when asked whether he thinks Zuma would still get the message, he answered: "Yes."
At the end of his speech, he said: "The President of South Africa is looking for constructive support. Don't criticise him, help him.
"He added that there are no "buts". The Bible says one should respect people in positions of authority.