Christian fathers in various churches, yesterday, joined their counterparts globally to celebrate Father’s Day.
Canon Residentiary, the Venerable Abiodun Omoyelu, called on Christian fathers to showcase the love of God to people around them, stressing that obedience to God’s word is better than sacrifice.
Omoyelu gave the charge at the Diocese of Lagos West, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral (AVMCC), GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.
Speaking on the topic, ‘Results of Godly Obedience’, he reminded fathers that obedience is a commandment from God and their allegiance to Him is paramount.
Omoyelu quoted copiously from the Scriptures and enjoined fathers to emulate Biblical figures, such as Abraham, David, Daniel, Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego, who exhibited obedience to God and were blessed in return.
The cleric described obedience as allegiance to God; allegiance to authority; submission to constituted authority, whether government, secular or spiritual.
He said: “Obedience to God’s law keeps man in the paths of life and righteousness. You are rightly connected to God, when you obey him. Obedience is a staircase to spiritual height.
“What then is obedience? Obedience is to submit, to hearken. Obedience is to do God’s will, and Christians must be doers of God’s word, doers of God’s commandments and instructions. Godly obedience will put our hearts in order or right with God.”
The cleric added: “Godly obedience will earn us salvation, lead to answered prayers. It is through godly obedience that we enjoy God’s abiding presence always. And finally, we have the right to eat the good of the land.”
The church used the occasion to mark All Men’s Harvest, the 16th anniversary of Band of Glory Society, and 27th anniversary of Christian Brothers.
Also, Anambra State deputy governor, Dr. Onyeka Ibezim, urged fathers to be prayerful and bold to surmount challenges.
Ibezim spoke during the Fathers’ Sunday Celebration of Christian Men’s Fellowship (CMF) of the Church of the Holy Spirit, Awka, Anglican Communion.
