Christmas message to the nation

Good News Of Great Joy

“But the angel said: Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10-11:

Christmas celebration marks the birth of the Saviour of the world, Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Son of the Living God. His birth was severally foretold in the Old Testament, and at the fullness of time, He was born of the Virgin Mary.

In anticipation of His coming, Isaiah prophesied: “that time of darkness and despair will not go on forever…The people who walk in darkness will see a great light.

For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine.” (Isa. 9:1-2). At Christmas, Christians and indeed the world celebrate the coming of the Light of the world that conquers darkness.

The message of the Saviour’s birth, as delivered firsthand by the angel, is that of ‘Good News Of Great Joy.’ This is the message of the Church to the world at Christmastide, and it is for all people everywhere, individuals and nations.

As we celebrate 2018 Christmas, we bring everyone this good news of great joy. Our world today is in need of the Saviour.

There is darkness all over the place, not physical but spiritual darkness, resulting in moral darkness and widespread fear; rise in terrorism and inconceivable moral decay among men, wherever the Light of the world, Jesus Christ, is rejected. Isaiah prophesied: “Nevertheless, that time of darkness and despair will not go on forever.” But where the Light is not recognised or received (John 1:10-11), spiritual darkness will thrive.

“This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.” (John 3:19).

It does not matter how enlightened and wealthy an individual may be, or how developed a nation is, without the light of Christ, they wallow in darkness.

The Scripture says: “Since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, he gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done….” (Rom. 1:28-31). Unfortunately, this is the clear description of our world today, thereby bringing heartaches on humanity.

The temptation to be used by the influential, especially politicians, whose children are meaningfully engaged abroad, to create chaos before, during or after Christmas and Elections, should be resisted, no matter how juicy.

The youths and pressure groups of all status, ASUU, NUPENG, NBA, NMA, NUT, NURTW, etc. are hereby reminded that in the event of crisis, everyone will fall victim. We must all work to enhance the peace that the birth of Jesus Christ brings to humanity.

The good news of great joy this Christmas is that Jesus Christ, the Light of the world, declares; “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Jn. 14:6; Matt. 11:28).

Therefore, in the midst of the chaos in the world, especially in the buildup to 2019 General Elections, true peace and rest that conquer all fears can be found in Christ, the Immanuel (God with us Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:23).

This invitation goes out to all men, rich and poor, educated and illiterate, white and black, Christians and non-Christians alike.

Wishing you a merry Christmas and a prosperous and happy New Year.