Navy Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), has called on the Christian faithful to emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ as the world celebrates His birth on Dec. 25.
Its National President, Hajiya Nana-Aisha Gambo, made the call at the association’s Christmas Carol/A Night of Nine Lessons at the National Defence College in Abuja on Saturday.
Gambo, represented by Mrs Loveleen Lassa, the association’s Abuja Zonal Director, said the call was imperative if Christians were to practice Christianity faithfully and in its entirety.
“Christmas season is a special period celebrated worldwide and it reminds us of God’s love for mankind.
“It is a time to remember that God fulfilled His promise and sent His son to the world; it is a time to remember His generosity.
“It is a time to remember the less-privileged, the vulnerable, families and friends, but still keeping God in the centre of all these.
“ It is also a time to actually slow down and reflect and not get carried away by the holiday packed full of lights and gifts, and lose focus of what is being celebrated,’’ she said.
Gambo also reminded Christian faithful that Christmas period is a time to forgive, worship and thank God for His mercies.
“It is also a time to reflect on the Year 2022, which is gradually coming to an end with all its rigours and activities,’’ she added.
She also emphasised that the significance of Christmas should not end with the celebrations, but must always be brought to bear in the faithful’s daily lives, especially in this present world, filled with greed, hatred and vengeance.
“We sincerely need to always show love and kindness, not only during this period, but as a way of life. I enjoin us all to keep the spirit of love and kindness rekindled,’’ she said.
“As we approach 2023, I encourage us all to be optimistic of a brighter year; sustain a positive attitude and remain passionate in our dreams.
“The year 2023 is a new book about to be written in our personal lives and that of NOWA.
“I pray that God grants us long life, good health, vision and verve to be blessings to everyone around us. I wish everyone of us a merry Christmas and prosperous 2023 in advance,’’ she added.
In his remarks, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Awwal Gambo, thanked God for His mercies and protection and particularly for granting everyone the grace to witness the event.
Gambo was represented by the Chief of Administration, Naval Headquarters, Rear Adm. Jason Gbassa.
He said Christmas season is a special period celebrated worldwide as it reminds everyone, particularly the Christian faithful, of God’s love for mankind.
“It is a time to remember that God fulfilled His promise and sent His only son to the world for the atonement of our sins. It is indeed a time to remember His generosity,’’ he said.
He also commended the zeal and commitment of the association in sustaining all its important and special activities annually.
“We appreciate you and pray that the blessings of the season will never depart from our respective families in Jesus Name,’’ he prayed.
Gambo also encouraged Nigerians to be optimistic of a brighter Year 2023, and to sustain a positive attitude and remain passionate with their dreams.
The theme for the night of Christmas Carol was “The King is born, Jesus“. (NAN)
