Rt. Rev. (Dr.) Humprey B. Olumakaiye
Odinaka Uruakpa
The Diocesan bishop of Lagos (Anglican Communion), the Rt. Rev. (Dr.) Humprey B. Olumakaiye has urged Nigerians to conduct themselves in an orderly manner, as well as exhibit godly virtues as they celebrate Christmas.
Olumakaiye who gave this charge in his christmas messsage made available to newsmen, also tasked citizens to continue to pray to God to bestow Christ-like attributes to leaders in the country, so that like Jesus christ, they (leaders) will be able to profer solutions to problems facing the country.
According to him, the Yuletide season is a peculiar season and significant to the human race.
“This is a peculiar season. Its significance to individuals, our nation and indeed the whole world cannot be over-emphasized. Christmas is a time to show God’s light to the whole world. It declares the victory of light over darkness. Jesus Christ was born at the time when ignorance, superstition, greed, hatred and hypocrisy prevailed upon the land. Purity was forgotten and morality was neglected.
“A Saviour was needed to rescue the world from difficult and dangerous situations even as we also have restlessness, economic woes, wars, unemployment and corruption in our Country today. The birth of Christ shows us God’s Purpose, fulfils God’s Promise and assures us of God’s Presence. Luke 2: 11 says “For unto you is born this day, in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord”, he siad
While assuring that Jesus Christ having saved the world from troubles and assault of the enemies, has the capability to save the Nigeria as the nation prepares for general elections, the bishop revealed that the birth of Jesus Christ, the saviour is not of the ordinary.
“Our country should continue to pray for leaders with this kind of attributes at this season of Christmas and beyond. We cannot afford to have anyone lead us without these attributes. As members of our dear Diocese, we must do things with the fear of God as we use this time of Christmas to return to God and worship Him in Spirit and in truth.
“We should not be confused because confusion is associated with fear. Let us allow God to lead us. The God that has brought us this far in our dear country Nigeria is saying, ‘Fear Not.’ He will take us farther than here in peace. God will take care of the election and make everyone bow to His authority”, he said.
The bishop also urged citizens to ensure they go about carrying out their daily activities peacefully, as well as exercising their civic duties by voting for candidates of their choice during the elections.
“Consequently, I urge all of us to avoid anything that can result into disaster and calamities and also disorderliness and go all out for peace by imbibing tolerance, forgiveness and forbearance, We should all go out and vote for candidates of our choice during the general elections.
“I pray that as we celebrate Christmas, our hearts and homes will be filled with all of the joy the festive season brings. Nothing will be able to destroy your joy. Wishing you a season of blessings from heaven above. The divine light of Christmas will shine in your life this season and beyond in Jeşus name”, he prayed.
