Easter Resurrection Offers Hope for Nigeria’s Challenges – Lagos Bishop
The resurrection of Jesus Christ offers a powerful antidote to the numerous challenges facing Nigerians, the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has said. According to the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Rt. Revd. Dr. Ifedola Okupevi, the Easter celebration is a moment that stands at the very heart of the Christian faith and inspires hope for all humanity.
In a statement, Bishop Okupevi noted that the resurrection of Christ is not merely a historical fact, but a living reality that shapes the present and future. "This glorious event is not merely a historical fact; it is the cornerstone of our faith," he said. "If Christ did not rise from the dead, then our faith is in vain, our hope is lost, and our witness to the world is meaningless (1 Corinthians 15:14). But thanks be to God, who has validated our hope by raising Jesus from the grave. Alleluia!"
The Bishop emphasised that the empty tomb stands as a beacon of hope, reminding Nigerians that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, there is always the possibility of new beginnings, of resurrection, of renewal. He said, "The resurrection calls us to embrace hope in the midst of despair, to persevere through adversity, and to never lose faith in the face of darkness. It calls us to believe in the power of redemption, to forgive as we have been forgiven, and to extend compassion to others."
In the context of Nigeria, Bishop Okupevi stated that the lessons of the resurrection take on profound significance. He said, "As Nigerians, we face numerous challenges—corruption, poverty, insecurity, and division. But the resurrection of Christ offers a powerful antidote to these ills —we must not succumb to despair. Instead, we must draw strength from our faith, from the hope of a brighter future, and from the unwavering love of God."
The Bishop called on Nigerians to rise above the divisions that plague the society, embracing the transformative power of forgiveness and reconciliation. He said, "Let us reject violence and embrace dialogue, seeking common ground and working together to build a more just and equitable society. Let us emulate the selfless love and sacrifice of Christ, extending compassion to all, regardless of their background or beliefs."
Bishop Okupevi concluded by urging Nigerians to renew their commitment to the values of justice, peace, and prosperity. He said, "This Easter, let us renew our commitment to these values. Let us allow the hope of the resurrection to inspire us to work towards a better Nigeria—a nation where justice, peace, and prosperity prevail. Let us be agents of transformation, extending love, forgiveness, and hope to all those around us."
The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) has been a vocal advocate for peace and stability in the country, and Bishop Okupevi’s statement is a call to action for Nigerians to work towards a brighter future. As the nation continues to face numerous challenges, the message of hope and redemption from the Easter resurrection offers a beacon of light in the darkness.
According to Champion News, the Bishop’s statement is a reminder that the Easter celebration is not just a time for festivities, but a moment to reflect on the values of hope, forgiveness, and redemption. As Nigerians celebrate the Easter, Bishop Okupevi’s words offer a message of hope and encouragement, urging the nation to work towards a better future.
The Easter resurrection is a powerful reminder of the importance of hope, forgiveness, and redemption in the face of adversity. As Nigeria continues to navigate its challenges, the message of the Easter resurrection offers a beacon of light in the darkness, inspiring Nigerians to work towards a brighter future.
This article was originally published by Champion News.
