Love in Focus as Mrs Tinubu Organises Nine Lessons and Carols Service
•Arthur Eze urges rich to take care of the poor
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
The 2024 annual Nine Lessons and Carols Service, with the theme “Immanuel, Our Restorer of Hope,” was organised by the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu
at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, with prominent dignitaries and faith leaders in attendance.
The event featured scripture readings by notable personalities, including former Head of State and elder statesman, General Yakubu Gowon; Deputy House Speaker, Hon Benjamin Kalu; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyeosom Wike; President of Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Chairman, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Olanipekun Olukoyede; First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu ending with Bishop Tunde Adegbite.
In a sermon delivered during the 2024 Christmas Carol and Nine Lessons service, Vice President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Baba Payan, called on Christians to embody the spirit of love that defines the season.
Titled “Let Brotherly Love Continue,” he emphasised the importance of compassion and kindness in a world often marked by division.
Payan anchored his message in key biblical passages, including Hebrews 13:1-2, which urges believers to let brotherly love continue and to entertain strangers, as some have unknowingly hosted angels.
He also referenced 1 John 4:7-9, declaring that “God is love,” and John 3:16, which articulates the core of Christian belief: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.”
The cleric highlighted that Christmas is fundamentally about love. “This season invites us to reflect on how we can show love to those around us,” Payan stated, adding that love transcends boundaries of ethnicity, religion, and social status.
Drawing from the teachings of Jesus, particularly Matthew 22:35-40 and Luke 10:29, Rev. Payan illustrated that our neighbours are not limited to those who share our beliefs or backgrounds but include anyone in need. “Your neighbour is anyone who requires your help,” he asserted.
He urged congregants to reach out to those less fortunate during this festive season, saying, “Let us show love to anyone in need of our help.” He reminded everyone that acts of kindness could be transformative—not just for those receiving help but also for those giving it.
Payan further elaborated on the significance of love in spiritual life by quoting 1 Corinthians 13:1, which states that without love, even the most eloquent speech is meaningless. “We live in an age where many seek miracles, signs and wonders,” he noted. “While we celebrate these miracles, sings and wonders, the greatest proof of our spirituality remains our capacity for love.”
He referenced John 13:35, which proclaims that discipleship is evidenced by love for one another. “By this, all will know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another,” he said.
Payan recalled a historical quote attributed to Napoleon Bonaparte regarding Christ’s enduring influence compared to earthly kingdoms. “Napoleon said that while earthly kingdoms may fall, Christ’s kingdom endures because it is built on love,” he explained.
He concluded his sermon with a powerful reminder: “One day, all kingdoms will be destroyed; only the kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ will stand forever.”
Business mogul, Arthur Eze, on his part shared a powerful message about the spirit of giving during the festive season.
Speaking to reporters, he emphasized the importance of sharing with others, stating, “Because of Christmas, whatever you have, share with others. If you are rich and you don’t share it, even if you die, you will not go with it.”
The service included traditional hymns such as “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and carols performed in various languages, showcasing Nigeria’s cultural diversity.
