We celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Redeemer and Saviour of the whole world, with cautious optimism. Christ came with a message of love, redemption and salvation with a promise of eternal victory for everyone that embraced His sacrifice for humanity. His birth, therefore, offered (and still offers) the world hope in times of despair, peace amid global turbulence, and indeed deliverance from all shackles of the enemies.
As we mark Christ’s glorious birth today, this anniversary presents us another season to reflect on the state of our nation and the condition of our compatriots, whether Christians or Muslims. It also presents us a real reason to embrace the love of Christ rather than resort to violence in the pursuit of collective and personal grievances. Hence, we should not just celebrate Christ’s birth today. We should also embrace His love and continue daily therein in the interest of collective peace.
Regardless of faith we may profess, Christ’s love offers us an eternal message that binds broken hearts together; that soothes festering sores and that reconciles estranged brothers again. It is a message that heralds national cohesion, rebirth and stability. It is a message that thaws rebellion within and prepares every soul for enduring reconciliation. It is a message, perfect for all seasons, peacetime or wartime and for all humanity, Christians or Muslims alike.
As we henceforth, brace up for this life of enduring love, we then have the duty to be purveyors of peace and not violence, harmony and not divergence, and good tidings and not hate speech . It is only within this ambience that our nation can attain sustainable development: that our economy can witness exponential growth and that our people can daily pursue their aspirations without let or hindrance. Peace, inspired by Christ’s love, is a condition that guarantees enviable governance outcomes, whether at national or sub-national level.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year in Advance
. Senator Bamidele is Leader of the 10th Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria
