TIWAA OBI ANYI CHUKWU

"Tiwaa Obi Anyi Chukwu" is a profound and challenging piece of reflection for the choir and congregation alike. The title is a direct plea to God to break our hardened, stony hearts. The composer, Emma Eweniko, even includes a note at the top of the score urging singers to meditate on the words, warning that if the song affects you, you should change your ways and God will help you do so.

The verses paint a vivid picture of human hypocrisy that many of us recognize. They describe people who sound like angels when they pray in the market or fill the church with beautiful songs, only to return to chasing worldly wealth, holding grudges, and lacking genuine love for one another. The final verse draws a striking contrast, noting how even thieves and secret societies look out for their own, while the children of God are often divided by jealousy, hatred, and a scramble for position.

Musically, the piece carries a somber, pleading tone that fits perfectly into the season of Lent or as a deeply reflective Communion hymn. When a choir sings this, it is less about performing a beautiful melody and more about leading the church in a collective examination of conscience. It is a prayer for true conversion, asking God to shatter our stubbornness so we can genuinely seek His kingdom.