Easter: Let’s pray for peace in our land ―El-rufai

GOVERNOR Nasir El-rufai of Kaduna state has enjoined Christians to pray for peace as they observed this year’s easter.

In an address to the people of the state on Saturday, the governor said, ‘On behalf of myself and all the good people of Kaduna State, we seize this opportunity to felicitate with our brothers and sisters of the Christian community for a peaceful observance of the season of Lent ending with the great feast of Easter which celebrates the victory of Jesus Christ over death.

“This festival of triumph follows the holy season of Lent, during which the Christian community engaged in fasting, prayers and works of charity.

“As people of faith, let us continue to practice in our daily lives the lessons of sacrifice, care for the poor, deep spiritual reflection and love for all humankind, irrespective of tribe or religion, observed during the fasting.

For more than two thousand years, Easter has symbolised the triumph of hope over despair and an affirmation that darkness cannot trump the plans and wishes of Almighty God. Jesus Christ set an example of sacrifice that has moved men and women through the ages.

“As we celebrate the triumph of Christ, let us embrace all the lessons of Easter, never losing faith in the will of Almighty God, and the triumph of good over evil.

“Let us uphold each other in our common humanity and pray for peace in our land. Let us do our best to promote harmony in our communities and reject strife in our land. Let hope never depart from our hearts.

“As your Governor, I call on everyone who calls Kaduna State home to join hands with us as we work to make our State peaceful and safe for all; as we push on to improve the quality of life by providing qualitative and affordable education and decent healthcare.

Easter calls for dedication to duty, and putting the interest of the other before our personal gains, as Jesus taught us by sacrificing His life for all. We pray God Almighty that the blessings and lessons of Easter will spread all through our State, and move us all to be better people, he contended.