The Right Reverend Dr. Christian Onyeka Onyia, Bishop of the Diocese of Nike (Anglican Communion), has called on Christians to celebrate Christmas with a spirit of faithfulness and generosity. His message, delivered through a statement by his Media Adviser, Professor Chiwuike Uba, emphasized the deeper meaning of the season, urging believers to resist the distractions of materialism and focus on stewardship and service.
Bishop Onyia described Christmas as an opportunity for self-reflection, repentance, and a recommitment to faithful stewardship, especially for leaders across various sectors. He reminded Christians of their divine responsibility to act as trustworthy stewards of the resources and positions entrusted to them by God.
“Christmas is a time to pause and reflect on the profound responsibility of stewardship,” Bishop Onyia stated. “It is more than servanthood; it involves being faithful, obedient, loyal, and respectful to the One who has entrusted us with His blessings.” He highlighted the biblical foundations of stewardship, quoting passages such as Luke 12:42-43 and Proverbs 20:6 to underscore the importance of faithfulness, wisdom, and accountability.
The Bishop urged leaders—whether in politics, religion, business, or community roles—to use their positions for the betterment of society, uplifting the marginalized, and promoting unity. He warned of the consequences of unfaithfulness, citing Proverbs 11:3, which states, “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.” He emphasized that leaders’ actions have eternal consequences, stressing the need for integrity, compassion, and honesty.
Dr. Onyia also addressed the importance of generosity during the Christmas season. He encouraged Christians to emulate the love of God by sharing their blessings with those in need. Drawing from Proverbs 11:25—“A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed”—he called on believers to give selflessly, reflecting the ultimate gift of love through Jesus Christ.
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In his message, the Bishop referenced the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30, reminding Christians that they are entrusted with God’s gifts not for personal gain but to multiply and invest them for the benefit of others and the advancement of His kingdom. “We are not owners but caretakers of God’s treasures,” he said.
Bishop Onyia’s Christmas message is a poignant reminder of the true essence of the season. It challenges Christians to rise above the distractions of consumerism and embrace a life of faithfulness, generosity, and service to God and humanity.
As families gather to celebrate, Bishop Onyia urged believers to reflect on their responsibilities as stewards of God’s gifts. “Let this season inspire us to mend broken relationships, seek forgiveness for past wrongs, and recommit to living lives of integrity and purpose. Happy stewarding this Christmas, and may 2025 bring us closer to fulfilling God’s plans for our lives.”
This heartfelt message from the Anglican Bishop serves as a call to action for Christians everywhere to make this Christmas a time of giving, gratitude, and meaningful reflection.
