MONTHLY NEWSLETTER With Rev. Dr. C. A. ONITIRI (December 2024 Edition)

SCRIPTURE FOR DECEMBER: LUKE 2V6-14.

THEME: “GOOD TIDINGS OF GREAT JOY; CELEBRATING THE BIRTH OF OUR SAVIOUR.”

Dearly Beloved in Christ,

As December greets us with its festive atmosphere, it’s a perfect time to pause and reflect on the true essence of Christmas. This season is not just about lights, decorations, or gifts; it is about the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ, who came to redeem mankind. Let us draw inspiration from Luke 2:6-14 (KJV), a passage that vividly captures the wonder and joy of Christ’s arrival:

“6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2v6-14 (KJV)

LESSONS FROM THE NATIVITY STORY

1.GOD’S PERFECT TIMING:

The Bible says, “the days were accomplished that she should be delivered” (v. 6). God’s timing is always perfect. Just as Christ’s birth was divinely timed, we can trust God to accomplish His promises in our lives at the appointed time.

2.THE HUMILITY OF CHRIST’S BIRTH:
“She brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger” (v. 7). The King of Kings chose to enter the world humbly, teaching us that greatness is not in material wealth but in service, love, and humility.

3. THE UNIVERSALITY OF THE GOOD NEWS
The angel proclaimed, “I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people” (v. 10). The birth of Jesus is for everyone, transcending race, status, and background. Let us share this message of hope and salvation far and wide.

4. THE GIFT OF PEACE AND GOODWILL
The heavenly host declared, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (v. 14). In a world filled with turmoil, Jesus offers a peace that surpasses all understanding. This peace is available to all who welcome Him into their hearts.

BEYOND 2024; LIVING THE MESSAGE OF CHRISTMAS

As we approach a new year, let us carry the lessons of Christmas into 2025 and beyond:

GLORIFY GOD DAILY : Like the angels, let us continually give glory to God in all we do.

BE MESSENGERS OF JOY: Share the good news of Jesus with those around you, spreading love and kindness.

PURSUE PEACE: Commit to living in harmony with others, reflecting the peace of Christ in your relationships.

TRUST GOD’S PLAN: Just as Christ came at the appointed time, trust that God will fulfill His purposes in your life.

A JOYOUS CELEBRATION

This Christmas, let us not just celebrate outwardly but inwardly, rejoicing in the greatest gift ever given: Jesus Christ. His birth brings hope to the hopeless, peace to the troubled, and joy to all the earth. Let us join the angels in saying,

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14).

Happy New Month and have a beautiful month of December filled with joy and happiness in Jesus name.

In His Service,

SHALOM!