Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West of the Anglican Communion, The Rt Rev James Odedeji has described the birth of Jesus Christ as a liberating phenomenon for humanity.
He made the submission in a sermon at the Archbishop Vinning Memorial Cathedral Church, Ikeja, Lagos on Monday, December 25.
Bishop Odedeji who preached on the topic, Joy of His birth, said the birth of Jesus gave humanity the capacity to move from darkness to light.
Crisis without Christ
He likened a life without Christ to a life in crisis, because through His birth, mankind has been given the link to the source of life.
According to him, the birth of Jesus Christ came with many blessings part of which are the “joy of salvation; the joy of His presence; the joy of dominion over the power of darkness; the joy of answered prayers; and the joy of better tomorrow.”
The Anglican Bishop who preached from John 1vs 1-14, described Christmas as “a very special occasion that everyone looks up to; a time when everybody wants to be with their families.”
Wife of the Bishop, Dr Mrs Lydia Odedeji and the wife of the Dean of Avmcc, Mrs Folashade Odewole
Unconditional love
The birth of Christ also according to him “has to do with unconditional love for mankind. By His birth, there’s no limitation, hence we’re more than conquerors.”
He further admonished Christians on what is expected of them at Christmas urging them to allow the experience of the new birth to reflect in their lives. “Let Christ be praised in you through a life of praise. When you serve God, God will serve you” he added.
Odedeji urged the congregation to embrace a life of prayer because prayer is the connecting force between man and God.
Bishop Odedeji flanked by Mr Tunji Oguntuase and Mr Sola Solanke who are members of the media team of the Diocese of Lagos West
Thanksgiving
Highpoint of the service was the Christmas Thanksgiving during which the congregation danced to the altar with melodious songs from the Cathedral choir, and offered their appreciation to God.
The entire congregation trooped out in typical Christmas colors of green and red to give thanks to God almighty in a Holy Eucharist service, for witnessing another Christmas in the land of the living.
