Faith, Service, and Unity: A Call for National Renewal
Nigeria stands at a critical juncture, facing multifaceted challenges that test the resilience of its people and the fabric of its unity. In the face of economic headwinds and societal divisions, a powerful message of hope, selfless service, and unwavering faith has emerged, urging the nation towards a path of collective renewal. This call to action was most recently articulated at the 2025 Service of Nine Lessons and Carols, an event hosted by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the State House in Abuja.
The solemn occasion, themed ‘Emmanuel: God With Us,’ brought together prominent national figures, including former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. The presence of these esteemed individuals underscored the significance of the message delivered by the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Oliver Aba.
The Enduring Presence of ‘Emmanuel’
In his exhortation, Bishop Aba eloquently expounded on the theme of ‘Emmanuel,’ emphasizing God’s constant and personal presence amidst Nigeria’s trials. He drew a parallel between the divine promise of God’s presence and the nation’s need for a similar spirit of closeness and involvement in its everyday affairs.
“Jesus did not come to be far away from us. He came to be present. He came to be closer and more involved in our everyday affairs,” Bishop Aba stated, highlighting the personal nature of God’s love. He assured the congregation that this divine presence is not diminished by life’s challenges, extending through “the valley, in the storms of life and in the victory, that means in season and out of season, Jesus has decided to live among us.”
This message of divine companionship serves as a powerful antidote to feelings of isolation and despair that can accompany national struggles. Bishop Aba urged Nigerians to draw strength from this unwavering presence, particularly in confronting issues such as inflation and insecurity. “As a people, as a nation, when you are worried, God is with you as a Prince of Peace. Today, the Prince of Peace is ready to give us peace,” he declared, linking spiritual solace to tangible national peace.
A Foundation of Selfless Love and Service
The spirit of the season, deeply rooted in the biblical narrative of Christmas, was presented as a testament to God’s boundless and selfless love for humanity. Bishop Aba invoked the well-known scripture, John 3:16, to underscore the profound sacrifice inherent in divine love. “It’s about the love of God for humanity, and that is why Jesus had to go on the cross. For God so loved the world [He gave His only Son],” he reminded the attendees.
This divine example of selflessness served as a catalyst for a challenge issued to both leaders and citizens alike. Bishop Aba implored all Nigerians to embrace a doctrine of selflessness, questioning allegiances and urging a collective commitment to the nation’s betterment. “Nigerians and non-Nigerians. The doctrine that is that of selflessness, which side are you, as people of one nation?” he posed, calling for a unified front. “We must come together so that as we celebrate Christ, Nigeria can be better,” he urged, linking the spiritual celebration to tangible national progress.
The prelate encouraged a period of deep reflection on the peace and service exemplified by Christ. “As we rise from this place and go back home, what will you meditate on? The peace that Jesus brought into this world, the love that he has portrayed if all of us and everything around us shall stand for good, how many of us are ready to be on the Lord’s side for somebody to use?” he asked, prompting introspection on individual readiness to contribute to the greater good.
A Service of Lessons and Carols: A Tapestry of Scripture and Song
The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols itself was a rich tapestry of biblical readings and uplifting choral music, reinforcing the themes of faith, hope, and redemption. A 100-man Christian Association of Nigeria mass choir provided a powerful musical backdrop throughout the service.
The service commenced with the traditional hymn, “Once in Royal David’s City,” followed by the Bidding Prayer and the spirited carol, “Ding Dong! Merrily on High.”
The nine lessons, read by distinguished guests, traced the biblical narrative from creation to the birth of Christ:
- First Lesson: Genesis 3:8–12, read by General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), focusing on humanity’s initial encounter with accountability. The choir responded with “Hark! The Herald-Angels Sing.”
- Second Lesson: Genesis 22:15–18, read by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, highlighting the covenant of blessing through obedience. The assembly rendered “Brightest and Best of the Sons of the Morning.”
- Third Lesson: Isaiah 9:6–7, a prophecy of the Prince of Peace, read by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele. This was followed by the choir’s rendition of “The First Noel the Angel Did Say.”
- Fourth Lesson: Isaiah 11:1–4, read by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, paired with the carol “Still the Night, Holy the Night!”
- Fifth Lesson: Luke 1:26–31, recounting Gabriel’s visitation to Mary, delivered by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. The choir responded with “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” and “Joy to the World; The Lord Is Come.”
- Sixth Lesson: Luke 2:4–7, detailing the humble birth in Bethlehem, read by President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem. The response was “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night.”
- Seventh Lesson: Luke 2:10–14, the angels’ proclamation to the shepherds, presented by Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.). The choir sang “Cradled in a Manger, Meanly.”
- Eighth Lesson: Matthew 2:9–12, concerning the Magi’s guided worship, read by Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun. The choir performed “Christians, Awake, Salute the Happy Morn.”
- Ninth Lesson: John 1:1–14, affirming the Word made flesh, read by the host, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu. The congregation rose for the final hymn, “O Come, All Ye Faithful.”
The collective reading of these scriptures, interwoven with inspiring music, served as a potent reminder of the foundational principles of faith, hope, and selfless love that can guide Nigeria towards a brighter future. The message from the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols resonates deeply, calling for a united effort to rebuild trust, strengthen national unity, and uplift all citizens weathering the present socioeconomic storms.
