BY MBONGENI NDLELA
LOZITHA- His Majesty King Mswati III has urged Emaswati to embrace the spirit of agape love as the nation marks Valentine’s Day, encouraging citizens to reflect on God’s unconditional love and begin the year with faith, gratitude and spiritual renewal.
A message centred on the power of unconditional love set the tone as His Majesty King Mswati III reflected on faith, gratitude and renewal, reminding Emaswati that the year should begin with praise, thanksgiving and a deep understanding of God’s love.
“It is always a joy that when we begin the year we start by praising and worshipping God,” said the King. “It pleases us to see that the pastures are green because of the good rains we have received as a country.”
He noted that Valentine’s Day, celebrated worldwide as a day of love, offers a powerful opportunity to reflect on a deeper kind of love, the love of God.
The Meaning of Agape Love
Drawing from scripture, the King referenced John 3:16 to explain the depth of divine love.
“The Bible tells us that God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son,” he said. “This shows us how special God’s love is.”
He explained that the coming of Jesus to Earth was itself a miracle and a powerful demonstration of unconditional love.
“Miracles had to happen before Jesus came to earth. He was born from a virgin, and His Son died for our sins. This is what we call agape love.”
The King described agape love as love given freely without expecting anything in return.
“What is agape love? It is when a person does things for you unconditionally. Only God can give you this kind of love,” he said.
A Love for Everyone
The King emphasised that divine love knows no boundaries and is available to all people regardless of their circumstances.
“God does not choose whom to love, whether you are rich or poor, God loves you,” he said. “Even if you have nothing to give back, His love remains.”
He urged people to remember that forgiveness is central to agape love, pointing to Jesus’ actions during the crucifixion.
“When Jesus was crucified, instead of cursing, He chose to forgive,” the King said. “This shows us the depth of God’s unconditional love.”
Hope, Faith and Renewal
The King encouraged citizens facing challenges to draw strength from faith and trust in God’s presence.
“Even if you are faced with serious challenges, know that God loves you. What you need to do is come close to Him,” he said.
He added that faith provides comfort and guidance in times of difficulty.
“A person without God, things are not well for him. If you have God, nothing bad will happen against you,” he said.
A Call for National Reflection
As the nation reflects on decades of progress, the King urged emaSwati to seek renewal through faith and unity.
“As Emaswati, we should seek God’s grace and agape love. We thank God that He has led us for 40 years. It means it is time for renewal and transformation,” he said.
The message concluded with a reminder that divine love remains a guiding force for individuals, families and the nation as a whole, encouraging everyone to embrace compassion, forgiveness and faith in the year ahead.
