The Sunday Mail
Book Review
Edmore Zvinonzwa
WRITING is an art and usually — depending on the purpose of the literature — writers are more worried about the impact they will have on readers.
Today, where we have multiple media channels competing for attention, the method used to communicate becomes important.
This refers to how theme, language and other aspects are handled.
At the end of the day, whether the message goes through or not is largely dependent on the method.
Traditionally, philosophers such as Pluto, Hobbes and Aristotle have grappled with life issues.
One of the key messages Pastor Wilson Katumba explores in his book is trust, a trait that is central in everyday life.
Published by Southern African Book Inn Consultant Publishers (Sabic), Eagle Vision Devotional has a special way to look at issues like trust and integrity.
“Trusting God means surrendering all to Him and trusting in His abilities. It’s no longer about you but about Him. You can only be guided by someone you trust. You can surrender all to someone you trust. Trust in God will give you rest and patience. Anyone who puts his trust in the Lord will never be ashamed. Shame is being taken away.” (p5)
True issues pervade almost every part of human life. In relationships, trust is crucial. Even the success of corporates hinges on trust. Perhaps one of the most crucial chapters in Pastor Katumba’s book is the one titled “Choose Life”, which expressly exhorts humanity to follow the path shown by Jesus.
The cleric also takes time to discuss about integrity. Unquestionable integrity is considered an indispensable part of humanity.
“Integrity is the father of dignity. Let’s go for integrity. Your choice is supreme in the adventure of righteousness. It is your choice that counts and not the wickedness of Satan.
“The prodigal son made a choice one day and it was effected to his favour. Certain things can be stopped now if you stand strong by the power of choice.” (p8)
Pastor Katumba cites the story of Daniel to illustrate his message.
“Daniel lived in Babylon, a land of defilement, but he purposed not to defile himself. He made a choice for righteousness and made his way to the throne.”
The cleric also refers to the story of Hannah to show how faith can overcome worldly challenges like barrenness.
Hannah’s decision to live a life of prayer was rewarding.
“Fervent prayer will make you give birth to new dimensions in your life. Elijah prayed and the rains came . . . Pray your way out of barrenness.” (p29)
Persistence is a rare quality in people but it can be very rewarding to those who have it. It is a quality that comes with a fighting spirit. If you do not persevere, you do not succeed.
“The moment you stop pushing, you start crashing. Don’t ever get to a point where if you don’t make it, you conclude that it means God had not planned it for you to make it. Don’t get to a place where you think you have tried your best. Keep pushing. Keep knocking on the door and you will be guaranteed of answers.” (p27)
Pastor Wilson Katumba was born in Mutoko in 1978, as the last-born in a family of five boys. After spending 19 years serving in an international ministry, pastoring for 13 years, he formed Eagle Vision Church in February 2019.
The church is based in Mutare and intends to expand to other cities around the country and the region.
He is married to Nyarai Katumba and the couple were blessed with two handsome boys, Simbarashe and Samuel.
His book is a must-have as it is almost a life manual that one can turn to for guidance and even advice in critical moments.
