MARKED AS HIS OWN

ISAIAH 44:1–5 In many African communities, people mark themselves with symbols—tribal marks, bead patterns, or special attire. These marks tell stories of identity, belonging, and heritage. Isaiah 44 speaks of being marked as “The Lord’s”. God declares His people to be His. Like a child named after their ancestors or a village’s emblem proudly worn, this … [Read more…]

STEADFAST LOVE

PSALM 136:1–9 Every morning, his grandmother waves as he walks to school, calling out, “God loves you, my boy!” Most days, David barely responds—lost in his thoughts about exams, soccer, or what his friends might say. Yet Grandma never missed a day. Her love was constant, no matter what. God’s love is like that—and even greater. … [Read more…]

A HOME BEYOND THIS LIFE

JOHN 14:1–6 In many African cultures, having a family home is a big deal. Whether it is a house in the village or a rented room in the city, a home brings comfort, identity, and belonging. But even the best house here cannot compare to what Jesus promised us (John 14:2). He was not just talking … [Read more…]

LOSS AND GRIEF?

PSALM 25:14–22 A young man who had lost his mother stood beside the grave in the middle of the town at midnight. He thought about his mother’s laughing in the kitchen on harvest nights, and the emptiness of the courtyard echoes the pain of a broken heart. “O God, have You abandoned me?” he exclaimed. David, the … [Read more…]

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

ECCLESIASTES 4:8–12 Life in Nigeria can be tough—whether it is trying to pass WAEC, handle university stress, hustle for a job, or even just dealing with pressure from family and friends. At such times, having someone who truly supports you can make all the difference. Ecclesiastes 4 reminds us that life is better when we do not … [Read more…]

THE HIGHEST PLACE 

COLOSSIANS 1:15-23 At school, Maya overheard her friends talking about their favourite celebrities. One asked her, “Who is someone you admire most?” Without hesitation, she said, “Jesus.” They looked surprised. “Why Him?” Maya smiled. “Because He changed my life. He is not just a historical figure—He is real to me. When I feel alone, He is … [Read more…]

GOOD RIDDANCE

PSALM 103:1–12 Good Riddance Day, a Latin American tradition, involves individuals writing down embarrassing memories and issues from the past year and throwing them into an industrial-strength shredder or sledgehammer. The author of Psalm 103 does more than just advise people to bid bad memories farewell. He reminded us that our sins are forgiven by God, who … [Read more…]

CELEBRATE GOD’S FAITHFULNESS

ISAIAH 25:1–8 After being turned down, a man who was trying to enlist in the army became quite disheartened. A war began several weeks later. He felt appreciative after realising that he might have perished on the battlefield. There may be times when we get disappointed because God has not answered us or intervened in our challenges. … [Read more…]

A SAFE PLACE

PSALM 17:1–9 Growing up, my siblings and I enjoyed imaginative play, building forts and pretending to be safe from imaginary enemies. Years later, we watched children build their own safe places using blankets, sheets, and pillows, demonstrating the instinct for safety and security. David, a singer-poet of Israel, sought safety in God (Psalm 17:8). Despite constant … [Read more…]

STORY FROM THE SCRAPYARD

REVELATION 21:1–7 James is fascinated by the scrapyard, as he enjoys working on cars. These lonely places are filled with discarded hulks, some wrecked, worn out, and outlived. Each car has a story, a portal to the past. Reviving an ancient component is a minor triumph over ageing and deterioration. This makes me think of Jesus’ … [Read more…]