Yuletide: Don’t lose hope, Sanwo-Olu urges Lagosians
Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has charged Lagosians not to “lose hope” amidst the current challenging times of economic downturn, imploring them that the season of respite is on the way.
Sanwo-Olu gave the charge in his message at the 17th edition of the State’s annual Christmas Carol of Nine Lessons with the theme ‘’King of Righteousness’’ as stated in Hebrews Chapter 7 verse 2.
Sanwo-Olu who was represented at the event by his wife, the first lady of Lagos, Dr. ibijoke Sanwo-Olu charged Lagosians to follow the “teachings and actions of Christ which exemplify a righteous living”, said this will in the long run result to an expected end of good fortune which will lead to fulfillment.
He urged Lagosians to live in peace and righteousness which exalts a nation, stating we must not despair nor lose hope.
“The times are challenging. We must however not despair nor lose hope,” he said, mentioning that the current pains would be insignificant when the fruit of labour in righteousness begins to spring forth.
He urged Lagosians to be law abiding, promising to keep rolling out welfare packages and palliatives to cushion the impacts of present economic hardship.
Sanwo-Olu who quoted John 3:16 “For God so loved the World that He gave His only begotton Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life”, said in his speech: “We have come together to honor the king of Kings and the lord of Lords whose birth we commemorate during this special time of the year. The story of Jesus christ, is one that resonates with people from all walks of life, transcending boundaries and uniting us with a common purpose.
“Jesus Christ as the King of righteousness and king of peace, is the source of righteousness and peace for the whole unverse. Where He reigns, there is righteousness and peace.
“As we celebrate Jesus Christ through spreading His love and hope for humanity, we must continue to preach togetherness and spread the message of tolerance, peaceful coexistence and harmonious relationship among people of diverse beliefs and backgrounds.
“We must also follow His teachings and actions which exemplifies a righteous living. As we strive to follow His footsteps, let us remember that through faith in Him, we can experience true righteousness and find hope and fufilment in our lives. In addition, we should embrace the grace and love that Jesus offers and allow His righteousness to guide us in all that we do.
“As we proceed into the festive period and the New Year, I urge all Lagosians to continue living in peace and righteousness which, according to the scripture exalts a nation.
“There is no doubt in the fact that as individuals and as a nation, the times are challenging. We must however not despair nor lose hope.
“Let us continue to trust in God and have faith in the good intentions of the people we have put in positions of authority. The task is challenging but with our ceaseless prayers, I belive very strongly that the pains we are experiencing today will pale into insignificance when the fruits of our sacrifice begin to manifest in abundance. I pray that the good Lord will preserve our lives in good health to witness, feel and enjoy the new glory of our State and our nation.
“As we celebrate the yuletide season, I urge all Lagosians to continue to be law abiding. As a government, we will continue to roll out welfare programmes aimed at cushioning the pains and difficulties being experienced in critical aspects of living.
“I urge us to be our brothers and sisters keeper, especially at this time. Christmas is a season of celebration, a time to share, love, strengthen the bond of humanity, reaching out to people especially the less priviledged and ensuring that everyone feels a sense of belonging during this period.”
Speaking, the State Commissioner for Home Affairs, Olanrewaju Ibrahim Lolade, said the season teaches people to “extend hands of generosity and brotherliness towards mankind.”
“We are required spread love not only during the yuletide but throughout the whole year, and therefore, I enjoin us all to emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ as demonstrated in his humility and service to humanity,” he said.
He urged Lagosians to keep safe and be their brothers’ keeper by extending love and the spirit of sharing “to the less privileged while we continue to uphold our dear country, Nigeria in prayers.”
