History of Nations: Kosovo

Psalm 82:8 (NIV)
Arise, O God, judge the earth!
For it is You who possesses all the nations

When the Kosovo hit the headlines as a new republic, I started reflecting on God’s intentions for the people of Kosovo. God’s Intention for the world reaches its ultimate conclusion with the second coming of Jesus Christ. Mean while, God is quite active in shaping the history of each and every nation/ people, irrespective of any religious or historical background. It’s interesting to see how God is shaping the history of Kosovo at this point of time.

‘Kosovo’ is the newest country in the world map, which declared Independence unilaterally from Serbian Republic on 17^th February 2008. Even though the world still needs to recognize its independence, it has already received partial international recognition. The Kosovo Republic consists of 92% ethnic Albanians and majority of them are Muslims. The protestant population is estimated to be less than 1%.

While Orthodox Christians dominated till 15^th Century, Ottaman Empire started Islamisation of Albanians and initiated exclusive Muslim rule which saw persecution and exodus of Christians to the northern parts. The end of the Second World War saw formation of Communist Yugoslavia, which disintegrated into several independent countries based on ethno-religious backgrounds. Kosovo is the latest in that series.

Some countries declared the unilateral declaration of Independence as illegal. Several countries are concerned about uprising of pro independence groups with in those countries. But most of these movements arise out of brutal injustice and deprivation of dignity which is unbearable for God.

Since the creation, God’s involvement in History follows a rhythmic cycle of raise and fall of nations. Through these interventions, Gods intends to establish His Kingdom marked by Justice, Peace and Spiritual fulfillment.