The Executive Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government Hon. Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo has called on Christians to embrace love, kindness, and forgiveness as they reflect on the birth of Jesus Christ and the close of the year.
He made the call during the 17th Annual Christmas Carol and End-of-Year Thanksgiving Service held on Tuesday in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
While Addressing the gathering , of distinguished guests, Hon. Oyegbola-Sodipo emphasized the true essence of Christmas, which he described as a season of love, generosity, and hope.
He urged attendees to reflect on their roles in spreading love, kindness, and hope in a world filled with uncertainty.
He likened Jesus Christ to a guiding light that leads people through life’s challenges, encouraging everyone to be beacons of hope in their communities.
Speaking on the need for gratitude and forgiveness, Hon. Oyegbola-Sodipo advised the congregation to be thankful for God’s faithfulness and to release past hurts as they prepare for the new year.
His words “As we sing Christmas carols and reflect on the past year, let us remember the true meaning of Christmas. It is a time to celebrate the love, kindness, and generosity that Jesus embodies.
“In a world filled with darkness and uncertainty, Jesus is the light that shines brightly, guiding us through life’s challenges.
“As we celebrate His birth, let us also reflect on our own lives and the role we play in spreading love, kindness, and hope to those around us.
“As we come to the end of another year, let us take a moment to express our gratitude to God for His faithfulness and blessings. Let us also use this opportunity to forgive one another, to let go of past hurts and to start anew.
“As we look forward to the new year, let us do so with hope and optimism. Let us commit ourselves to being agents of positive change in our communities, to being beacons of hope in a world that often seems dark and uncertain.
In closing, I leave you with the words of Isaiah 9:6, which says, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
“May the peace, love, and joy of the Christmas season be with you and your loved ones throughout the coming year. “
The event featured a colorful drama presentation by members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) as well as an electrifying carol performance by the Council Choir. Both displays captivated the audience and added to the celebratory atmosphere of the occasion.
Dignitaries at the event are: APC Chairman, Alhaja Faidat Sarumi Akintunde represented by her Vice Alhaji Ganiu Saba, Major Adejimi , Mrs Ogunremi, Eng Adebari Abolurin, Alhaji Akeem Sobayo among others.
Other dignitaries are Vice Chairman, Hon. Taiyelolu Egbeyemi, Leader of the Legislative Council, Hon. Moruf Erubami, Deputy leader of the Legislative Council Hon. Waheed Akomolafe, Majority Leader, Hon. Olasheinde Ojoye and the Chief Whip, Hon. Moruf Ajibola. Others included Traditional rulers, Religious leaders, Gospel artistes.
