by crossriverwatch admin
The Atmosphere at the private residence of the Imokes, venue of the thanksgiving service to mark the 51st birthday of the First Lady, Mrs. Obioma Liyel-Imoke, Wife of Governor of Cross River State, was that of reflection, especially with the words by the officiating minister, Bishop Joseph Bassey of God’s Heritage Church who admonished friends and associates that were at the service to celebrate Mrs. Imoke not only because she is in power but because she is a wonderful woman who is serving humanity.
“People are here for different reasons. Are you here today because she is the Wife of Governor or because of relationship?
Would you be here when they are no longer in power or in government?” he queried.
Taking his Bible reading from Psalm 90 verse 9-12 and Psalm 110, the Bishop described the occasion as joyous and a celebration of a life of purpose and destiny adding that the ceremony was something deeply spiritual.
He noted that “the most important thing in life is life itself and the fundamental principle is that when you celebrate, what you celebrate multiplies.
“As we celebrate life, we commit God to not only increase our life but to also bless us in new ways”.
He said the reason people fret is because they have not numbered their days to apply their hearts to wisdom as to be able to face challenges. He encouraged the celebrant to become wiser and stronger in faith and not to fret in the time of challenges.
While calling on all to strive to fulfill their destinies, he reminded that life is not an accident, but rather God sent man for a purpose as every human is a creation of God.
“The big question is, am I fulfilling destiny or am I just doing my own thing and we need to think about this all the time. Success is not measured by fame or possessions or position but by the degree to which you have gone to fulfilling the purpose to which you are born”. He said.
Bishop Joseph therefore urged everyone to live a life of service so as to be remembered for positive things. He averred that people would be remembered for two things; that is the problem they created and the problem they solved and called on all to repent. ”This is the beginning of a New Year and God gives New Year so that we can open a new chapter”. He advised.
In an interview, Mrs. Obioma Liyel-Imoke expressed joy for being honored on her birthday. “I feel happiness because last year, I wasn’t here for my 50th birthday due to circumstances beyond my control. I thank God that we are here today I can’t be excited enough. She said.
She prayed God to grant her many more years to continue to dedicate her life to Him and also to continue to render humanitarian services to those who need it most.
Highpoint of the occasion was a special prayer for Mrs. Liyel Imoke by the Bishop, Communion and cutting of the birthday cake.
In attendance was the Deputy Governor Barr. Efiok Cobham and his wife Glory, Speaker Cross River State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Larry Odey and his wife, Members of Executive Council and Chairmen of Local Government councils.
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