By Staff Reporter
Christian minister and founder of Encounter Jesus Ministries International, Osenaga Michael Orokpo, has called on families to remain intentional about love, prayer, forgiveness and togetherness, describing the family as one of God’s most precious gifts to humanity.
Orokpo made the call in a reflection titled “The Sacred Gift Called Family,” where he emphasised the important role the family plays in shaping character, nurturing destinies and providing emotional and spiritual support.
According to him, the pursuit of success, purpose and greatness should not cause people to neglect those closest to them.
He noted that while achievements could add value to an individual’s life, family provides the warmth, support and meaning that make those accomplishments worthwhile.
“Achievements may decorate your life, but family gives it warmth and meaning,” Orokpo stated.
He urged people to love their families intentionally, honour their loved ones, pray for them, forgive quickly and remain present during both joyful and difficult moments.
The cleric also encouraged family members to celebrate one another’s victories and willingly carry each other’s burdens, stressing that familiarity should never diminish the value people attach to their loved ones.
Orokpo described family as a “divine stewardship,” explaining that God entrusts people to one another and expects them to demonstrate faithful love and care within their homes.
He further encouraged individuals to build their families on prayer, preserve them through love, strengthen them with sacrifice and honour, saying the home should be regarded as an important sphere of Christian service.
“When everything else has passed, may those closest to you testify that your greatest ministry began at home,” he said.
He anchored his message on the biblical declaration in Joshua 24:15: “But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”
