Archbishop Professor Williams Osazee of Halcyon Days International Church delivered a potent message to the Nigerian populace, emphasizing the critical need for a national embrace of the fear of God. Speaking at the Light of Life Ministries in Lagos, he argued that Nigeria’s multifaceted challenges can be effectively addressed if both leaders and citizens prioritize selflessness and genuine love for one another. This principle, he maintained, should form the bedrock of individual actions and societal interactions, serving as a compass for navigating the complexities of national life. Osazee stressed that this moral compass, anchored in divine reverence and brotherly affection, holds the key to unlocking Nigeria’s potential and propelling it towards progress and prosperity.
Osazee’s message wasn’t simply a call for increased religiosity, but a profound appeal for a transformation of hearts and minds. He asserted that the fear of God, coupled with an authentic love for fellow citizens, would naturally engender righteous leadership and responsible citizenship. He envisioned a scenario where political leaders, imbued with the fear of God, would govern with integrity and prioritize the welfare of the people they serve. This exemplary leadership, in turn, would cascade down to the citizenry, fostering a culture of emulation and ethical conduct across all strata of society. The archbishop thus posited a symbiotic relationship between leadership and citizenry, where the moral compass of one profoundly influences the other, creating a virtuous cycle of societal advancement.
The archbishop further elaborated that this fear of God isn’t a paralyzing dread, but a reverential awe that inspires individuals to act with integrity and uphold the highest ethical standards. He contended that this reverence, combined with love for fellow humans, would naturally spark reconciliation and promote blamelessness. It would encourage individuals to emulate the exemplary life of Jesus Christ in all aspects of their lives, fostering a society characterized by peace, harmony, and mutual respect. Osazee thus presented a compelling vision of a transformed Nigeria where the guiding principles are not self-interest and ambition, but divine reverence and genuine concern for the well-being of others.
Osazee’s message resonated deeply with the theme of leadership and service. He argued that true leadership, whether in the political or religious sphere, is predicated on the fear of God and love for humanity. Using his own position as archbishop as an example, he humbly acknowledged that without God’s grace, he would be unqualified to hold such a position, let alone strive towards a life of blamelessness as prescribed in the scriptures. This personal reflection served to underscore the importance of humility and dependence on divine guidance in leadership roles. He emphasized that leadership is not about personal aggrandizement, but about serving others and upholding the values of righteousness and justice.
Expanding on the concept of blamelessness, Osazee emphasized the importance of cultivating a mindset and lifestyle centered on good works. He highlighted the transformative power of Christ in enabling individuals to live holy and blameless lives. He encouraged continuous self-reflection and a conscious effort to align one’s thoughts and actions with divine principles. This ongoing process of self-improvement, he argued, is essential for achieving true blamelessness and fulfilling one’s potential as a positive force in society. He thus painted a picture of personal transformation as a continuous journey, requiring constant vigilance and a commitment to ethical living.
Finally, Osazee extended his message to religious leaders, emphasizing that their positions of authority come with significant responsibilities. He called on bishops, archbishops, pastors, apostles, and evangelists to view their roles as opportunities to reconcile people, communities, and nations to God. He urged them to embrace their roles as ambassadors of Christ, working diligently to make Nigeria and the world a better place. This call to action emphasized the crucial role of religious leaders in fostering positive change within society. They are not merely spiritual guides, but agents of transformation, entrusted with the responsibility of promoting peace, justice, and reconciliation in the world around them. Their influence, he stressed, has the power to shape individuals, communities, and ultimately, the nation itself.
