Forgiveness key to peaceful living, Anglican bishop tells Christians at Easter

Christians have been urged to make forgiveness a daily practice and remain steadfast in faith as they commemorate the sacrifice of Jesus Christ during the Good Friday observance.

Sunday Adewole, bishop of the Diocese of Kwara, Anglican Communion, gave the charge while delivering a sermon at the Good Friday service held at the Cathedral of Saint Barnabas, Sabo-Oke, Ilorin.

Speaking on the theme, ‘The Way of the Cross,’ the cleric highlighted the deep lessons embedded in the seven words spoken by Jesus Christ on the cross, stressing that forgiveness remains the foundation of peaceful coexistence among individuals.

According to him, “We must cultivate the habit of forgiveness. Forgive yourself and forgive others because we cannot live together without offending one another. Husband, forgive your wife, and wife, forgive your husband.”

The bishop noted that many broken relationships in society could be restored if individuals learn to let go of grudges and embrace reconciliation.

He also admonished parents to be mindful of their words towards their children, noting that spoken words play a significant role in shaping their future.

“Let your confession be positive, especially over your children. Speak life into them and guide them in the right path,” he advised.

Bishop Adewole charged the youth to take responsibility for the care and wellbeing of their parents, describing such acts as both a moral duty and a command rooted in faith.

He further encouraged worshippers not to lose hope in difficult situations, reminding them that delays in life should not be seen as outright denial from God.

“Delay is not denial. Stay faithful and do not lose hope. God’s plans will always come to pass at the right time,” he said.

The cleric warned against a lifestyle of sin, urging Christians to remain disciplined and committed to righteous living while entrusting all their challenges to God.

“Do not develop a taste for sin. Remain faithful and commit everything into the hands of God,” he cautioned.

The service drew Anglican faithful from different parts of Ilorin, who gathered to reflect on the significance of Good Friday and the enduring message of sacrifice, love and redemption.