The Reverend Samuel K. Bassaw, Superintendent Minister of Wesley Cathedral in Cape Coast, has cautioned Christians against reducing Christmas to mere “bread and wine festivities,” emphasising that the season should centre on the true meaning of the birth of Jesus Christ.
Speaking during the Cathedral’s Christmas Day service, attended by hundreds of worshippers, Rev Bassaw urged the congregation to reflect on the humility and sacrifice embodied in the nativity story rather than indulging in superficial celebrations.
“Christmas is not about bread and wine festivities that do not exemplify the birth of Jesus Christ,” he declared.
“It is a time to emulate the Saviour’s humility, share love with the needy and renew our faith.”
The minister highlighted the growing commercialisation of the day in Ghana, where lavish parties, alcohol and material exchanges often overshadow spiritual observance.
He called on families to prioritise acts of charity, such as supporting orphans and the elderly, aligning with biblical teachings on compassion.
Rev Bassaw highlighted how the birth of Christ ushered in peace for all Christians, drawing from the prophetic words in Isaiah 9:6.
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”
This verse, he said, foretold Jesus as the divine child who has brought eternal peace, resolving humanity’s deepest conflicts with God.
Rev Bassaw described Jesus’ kingdom as an “everlasting government” a timeless, unshakeable reign that transcends earthly powers, offering stability amid life’s chaos and ensuring justice for all who follow Him.
Further, he said God revealed Himself as a “Wonderful Counsellor” through Jesus’ birth, providing divine wisdom and guidance that far surpasses human advice.
In a world rife with confusion, he said Jesus Christ invites all to seek counsel from the Prince of Peace, transforming personal struggles into testimonies of grace.
Rev Bassaw clarified that true peace was not merely the absence of war or conflict, but the profound reality of God establishing His authority over humanity.
Through Jesus, God defeats sin and evil at their root, restoring harmony between Creator and creation, empowering believers to live victoriously, even in turbulent times, he added.
