By Ayagher Mary Sewuese
The Assistant Parish Priest of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Akpehe, Makurdi, Rev. Fr. Mfe Kyume has called on Christians to embrace joy, gratitude, and renewed hope as the Church celebrates the solemnity of Christmas, marking the birth of Jesus Christ. The celebration draws from the readings of the day: Isaiah 9:1–6, Titus 2:11–14, and the Gospel of Luke 2:1–14.
Rev. Fr. Kyume, in his homily on Christmas day, emphasized the central message of Christmas as the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation to humanity. Referring to the first reading from the prophet Isaiah, he reminded the faithful that the birth of Christ was foretold long before it happened. Quoting the prophecy, “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us,” the priest explained, Jesus is the light that dispels darkness, bringing hope to a world burdened by fear, suffering, and uncertainty.
The priest noted that Christmas is not merely a celebration of a historical event, but a living reality that calls believers to recognize God’s active presence in their lives. He urged Christians to allow the light of Christ to shine through their actions, especially in a society challenged by injustice, division, and hardship.
Reflecting on the second reading from the letter of St. Paul to Titus, the homily highlighted God’s grace made visible through the incarnation of Jesus Christ. Rev. Fr. Kyume explained that the birth of Christ teaches believers to reject sin and live upright, self-controlled, and godly lives. According to him, Christmas is an invitation to moral renewal and a deeper commitment to righteous living as people who await the glorious return of Christ.
Drawing from the Gospel reading of Luke, he focused on the humility surrounding the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, describing how the Son of God was born in a manger, welcomed by shepherds, simple and ordinary people, showing that God’s salvation is meant for all. The angel’s proclamation, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of goodwill,” was presented as the heart of the Christmas message.
The priest encouraged the faithful to imitate the shepherds by responding promptly and joyfully to God’s call, stressing that true celebration of Christmas is found in faith, generosity, and love for one another. He urged families to make room for Christ in their homes and hearts, just as there was no room for Him in the inn.
He concluded by reminding worshippers that Christmas brings the assurance that God is close to His people. As Christians celebrate the birth of the Saviour, they were encouraged to become instruments of peace, love, and compassion in their communities. The Mass ended with prayers of thanksgiving and joy, as the faithful rejoiced in the good news of Christmas: the birth of Jesus Christ, the light of the world and the Prince of Peace.
