In the midst of joyous celebrations marking the arrival of Christmas, a somber reflection on the essence of the season emerges from the pen of Wale Adedayo, the embattled chairman of Ijebu East local government, recently suspended. Adedayo challenges the prevalent focus on the physical aspects of the holiday, urging a deeper contemplation of the Word of God and its manifestation in our lives.
Adedayo contends that the true foundations of Christianity lie in the Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of faithful adherence to His Word. He expresses concern over the apparent disconnect between the professed faith and the actions of many, decrying the misuse of religious influence for personal gain and worldly power.
Drawing from his Yoruba heritage, Adedayo highlights the wisdom passed down through generations, where the integration of different faiths was embraced with a profound understanding of the ephemeral nature of material wealth. He encourages a return to the fundamental teachings that transcend religious boundaries, urging Christians to reflect on their actions in light of Galatians 5:22–23.
The press release issues a poignant reminder that the true measure of a believer lies not only in proclaiming the Word but, more importantly, in living it. Adedayo calls for a reevaluation of priorities, stressing the significance of love, peace, and kindness as the authentic fruits of a life aligned with the teachings of Christ.
As Christmas unfolds, Adedayo wishes everyone a joyous celebration but leaves a lasting challenge to prioritize living the Word over mere vocalization. The press release serves as a thought-provoking message on the true essence of the season and the enduring impact of genuine faith in action.
His words:
Many are celebrating the arrival of the Word of God today. They tagged it Christmas. But in virtually among them all, it is the physical vessel they adore and celebrate. They neither heed the Word nor appreciate the fact that as He affirmed while in the physical, there are other sheep, thus necessitating other Shepherds. They have repackaged Him in a manner that He will abhor upon His Second Coming. And, he foresaw that too, as He warned that such will be chased away because they never knew Him despite performing miracles and speaking in His Name.
To a number of us, Christianity has just two foundations: The Gifts of God through the Holy Spirit and Fruits of the Holy Spirit. In fact, He promised to pour out His Spirit on all flesh no matter where they belong (race, creed or social standing). The Pharisees are busy making money as usual, using His Name in vain to be known and close to worldly powers.
It is not enough to be Gifted by His Spirit. It is not enough to wrought miracles. Of course, it is not enough to mouth His Name in vain. Being faithful and loyal to His Word MUST reflect in the lives we live, thus the admonition that, the places where we live and our less privileged fellows MUST feel His awesome Presence anywhere those who belong to Him are.
It is the manifestation of His Gifts, through the Fruits His adherents bear that’ll be the key to unlocking the treasures of heaven. Sadly, the more we have people proclaiming His Name, the more poverty, crime and criminality we have. Homes are broken, powers are misused by those holding temporary positions, heinous acts are being done. Hardly do we see any manifestation of the Word in the lives around us.
As a Yoruba, son of man thank Olodumare, the beginning and the end, that His Word came through Orunmila to my race. And, from ancient times, it has been established and proven that not one Word of Ifa will be uttered without fulfillment. Our fathers, with their knowledge about the Intersection of the Faiths welcomed the other sheep (Arabs, Westerners, etc) to our shores. They were not stupid as many of our young believe. They knew that no matter what the white man takes from their land, it is just ephemeral – they cannot take it to the other side of life. Our fathers knew Olodumare more than we do today. And they knew where they were headed.
To my Christian friends, we ask that you return to this and ask yourself IF you will have a place at His feet on the Last Day: But the fruit(s) of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23.
A person who love others cannot be willfully enslaving them. You cannot be aiding violence and destroying lives through lies and be calling His Name. No wonder Great Awo, may his soul continue to enjoy blissful rest, always emphasize the importance of developing the man. Not that he abhorred materials things or hate the rich. He manifested the Word in every facet of his life, making those around him to love themselves, enjoy peace through the many developments he did for his space before departing.
We wish you a happy celebration today. But it is most important to live the Word than to mouth it. Merry Christmas all!
– Wale Adedayo
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