Christmas celebration: RCCG’s Melchizedek parish Electrify Members with Christmas Carol in Kogi
” Calls for sober reflection.
ATABOR JULIUS LOKOJA
As the Christmas celebration inches closer, the Melchizedek Parish, of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG has sparked off spiritual rendition of songs of Christmas carol in Lokoja, Kogi State capital.
The carol which was laden with the display of rhythmic and lyrical inspired songs was held inside the conference hall of Majesty International college on Saturday in Lokoja.
According to the Resident pastor of the parish, Bamidele Banjo, the Carol was to spur the members to appreciate the essence of the birth of Jesus Christ as the saviour of mankind.
Pastor Banjo noted that the birth of Jesus Christ was significant for believers as it brought about redemption from sins and pave ways for eternal salvation.
He disclosed that his 7year master plan carol series which kicked off in 2023 is expected to continue till 2030, was to energise various groups in the church to render life inspiring songs to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
He thanked the Almighty God, the General Overseer, G.O. Enoch Adeboye, the church and members for giving him the opportunity to serve in the vineyard of the Redeemed.
He commanded the coral groups for their artistic display through songs and urge them to hold on to their gifts for the growth of the kingdom of God even in the face of global threats to the body christ.
In a sermon, Pastor Gbenga Henry, challenged Christians not to dwell on varied thoughts on the Christmas celebration, but, to concern themselves with the very essence of his birth, which has offered Mankind latitude to connect with their creator for eternal rest.
Taking his bearing from Luke chapter 2:9-16, the fiery clergyman emphasised that there wouldn’t be death without the birth, hence, the birth of Jesus Christ is as important as his death.
He added that just as Mary was sceptical about the prophecy of her conception, there are several people all over the world that are doubtful of the real purpose of his birth, despite infallible proofs of his being the saviour of the world.
He noted that testimonies abound that by the name of Jesus Christ, blinds received their sight, lame walk and destitutes restored to glory.
He advised Christians not to fear in whatever circumstances they find themselves rather, they should muster courage in him for a change of stories, stressing that the present predicament is not worthy to hold down the fundamental purpose of Christ’s birth for humanity.
He enjoined Christians to keep up the celebration as stories told about the time of his birth in the Bible, regarding the weather and activities of men of that time has remained the same today, not minding the date and season of the celebration.
He urged the believers to prioritise the celebration with propagation of the gospel of Jesus Christ and not to indulge in activities that will not glorify his name.
” My message to the Redeemers at this period is for them to reflect on their lives. How have they used the name of the Saviour Jesus Christ to touch lives of their neighbours. How have they used their personal lives to preach the gospel. What he demands from believers in this period is for them to love their neighbours as themselves and not only to wine and to dine ” he sermonised.
Highlights of the occasion was the distribution of Christian books, literatures and instructional materials to children in attendance.
