By Eric Appah Marfo
Accra, Dec. 27, GNA — Most Reverend John Kobina Louis, Auxiliary Bishop of Accra, has urged Christians to renew their faith, deepen their commitment to Christ and embrace the message of hope that the birth of Jesus brings to the world.
He said Christmas, which marked the birth of Jesus Christ, was a time to reflect on God’s promise of salvation and the call to live as faithful disciples.
Delivering a Christmas message on Friday at a Nine Lessons and Carols Service organised by the Catholic Archdiocese of Accra, Most Rev. Louis encouraged Christians to focus on the hope and joy of the season, which symbolised the fulfillment of God’s covenant with humanity.
He said the celebration aligned with the theme of the Jubilee Year for the Archdiocese of Accra, “Pregnancy of Hope, A Year of Discipleship,” drawn from Romans 5:5.
Expounding on the theme, Most Rev. Louis described “pregnancy” as a metaphor for spiritual anticipation, likening it to the hope Christians nurtured as they awaited the fulfillment of God’s promises.
He explained that hope, as a theological virtue, strengthened believers to trust in God’s grace and the promise of eternal life.
Most Rev. Louis defined discipleship as a lifelong commitment to follow Christ, embracing His teachings, and living according to His desires.
“It is a call to transformation marked by a deeper relationship with Jesus and a witness to the Gospel,” he said.
He highlighted Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem as a profound act of faith and obedience, explaining that their willingness to heed God’s guidance during trying circumstances exemplified hope in action.
Most Rev. Louis also referenced the shepherds who, while tending their sheep, received the angelic announcement of Christ’s birth.
“The shepherds’ response to the angel’s message shows how hope can lead us to encounter God in unexpected moments of our daily lives,” he said.
The Bishop also described the Magi, or wise men, mentioned in Mathew 2:1-12 as pilgrims of hope who traveled great distances, guided by a star, to worship the newborn King.
“Their journey inspires us to pursue God with reverence, humility, and sacrifice,” he said.
He encouraged Christians to celebrate Christmas not only as a historical event but as an ongoing call to live in hope, faith, and discipleship.
“The birth of Jesus is a reminder of God’s love and faithfulness. As we celebrate, let us commit to living as disciples of hope, knowing that Christ’s light overcomes all darkness,” he added.
Most Rev. John Bonaventure Kwofie, Metropolitan Archbishop of Accra, in his welcome address, said Christmas served as a reminder of the importance of community, compassion and kindness.
He said the Carols Service commemorated the birth of Jesus Christ who came to bring light, love and hope into the world.
He urged Christians to demonstrate compassion, kindness, and unity during the festive season.
“Let us share the love and joy of Christ with others, especially the vulnerable and less privileged in our communities,” he said.
GNA