December is a month that has become very special for many Christians around the world, during which we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. The things we so much desire in Myanmar right now are peace and freedom from the oppression of this cruel and inhumane military junta. While December is the ‘season of joy’ in many places of the world, the people of Myanmar are languishing in prisons, starved of food, tortured for their hope, and murdered for their possessions. The brave people of Myanmar have all but forgotten the joy of this season through the many trials and tortures they have been continually forced to endure, yet we are still hopeful and long for this freedom, peace and joy deep within our hearts.

In this season of joy and celebration throughout many parts of the world, and although our hearts are heavy with our suffering and that of our fellow citizens, we join in the hope and internal peace that this season inspires, and continue to give our best efforts to the liberation of our people and nation. And just as God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son for us, that whosoever believeth in Him should not eternally perish, but have everlasting life, our wish is that our fellow countrymen will continue to lay aside all differences and unite as one in love and action to end this unlawful occupation of our homeland by the murderous and genocidal military dictators.

December also marks the celebration of freedom and of making the world a better place for all people. It is the celebration of freedom from evil, from the wages of sin, from tyranny and fear. Indeed this freedom was given to us from birth through the sacrifice of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and not to us only, but to everyone in the world regardless of status, gender, ethnicity or background.

Finally, this is the season to be together with our families, friends and loved ones to share life, love, happiness and fellowship with one another and with our neighbours. And although many of us no longer have this luxury, I do pray that those of you who are able can spend this precious time with your families, friends, loved ones and community. But most importantly, please join me in prayers, support, solidarity and action for our fellow citizens, the people of Myanmar, whose families, friends and loved ones have been brutally arrested, tortured and murdered by the genocidal military regime, or have fled their homes and villages for their lives and become as homeless in their own motherland. 

Please also join me in praying and continued action for the freedom of Myanmar from fear, evil, tyranny, suffering, death and destruction instigated by the genocidal military junta. May you have a safe and blessed Christmas!

Sincerely,

H.E. Dr. Sasa
Union Minister of Ministry of International Cooperation
Spoke Person of Nation Unity Government
Former Special Envoy to United Nations