Brother Tobie Kizza
Evaristo, Collins and Yago at Tobie Kizza burial's site (Ibanda Parish) |
As a saying goes that ignorance of
scripture is ignorance of Christ, it indeed spoke to me. It was after I had
taken a step to read about Bro. Tobie Kizza, who also happened to be the first
Muganda brother of the society of the Missionaries of Africa not only that but
also the Patron of Tobie Kizza Team here in our community Lavigerie.
Being born from the pagan background in 1872 in Burigi, this did not hinder him
from achieving and discerning his call to discipleship. The man, who ate,
worked, loved and lived with the famous martyrs (our fathers in faith) in the
year 1886. Inspired by their lives, and their willingness to die for Christ,
this gave Tobie more zeal and increased his commitment to Christ (rooted in
Christ, we venture with hope). Despite the hard ships under the rule of the
king, Tobie did not give up a thing the proved his high spirit of perseverance
which we are all called to live.
A number of virtues he lived among which was humility, simple life style,
obedience, a listening attitude, availability to help, and his 50 appointments
showed how hardworking he was. It is not all a hear say, but those who
witnessed have this to say. ‘He was a very popular Muganda with a soft and
heartening voice, ready laughter and charming welcome. He was liked by all and
that he was at all times spiritual and a fine man of God.’
Tobie’s life is a source of great inspiration and a learning moment for whoever
reads about his life story; his different characters have changed many peoples’
lives. If it has transformed my life, WHY NOT YOURS TOO? A man of zeal so let
us emulates him.
Compiled
by Evaristo Rukundo