“FIND STRENGTH IN THE LORD.” MODERATOR URGES REV. DR. G.N.N. ODONKOR AT THE FUNERAL SERVICE OF HIS LATE WIFE
In a heartfelt sermon delivered at the funeral service of the late Mrs. Akwaley Odonkor, beloved wife of the Clerk of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana, Rt. Rev. Dr. Abraham Nana Opare Kwakye, Moderator of the General Assembly, urged Christians to anchor their lives in God, especially in moments of deep sorrow and pain.
Preaching from Psalm 121 and 1 Samuel 30:6, the Moderator emphasized the example of David, who in the midst of despair, “found strength in the Lord.” He encouraged the bereaved family particularly the Clerk of GA and his children to take heart and find solace in the presence and promises of God.
“Pain is inevitable, but necessary for us to build hope in the Lord,” the Moderator declared. Drawing inspiration from Psalm 121, he reminded mourners that true help does not come from insurance policies, safety plans, or human arrangements, but from looking up to God, “Unto the hills, from whence cometh our help.”
Quoting Christian author Max Lucado, he said, “It is impossible to have life without pain; and so when pain comes, you must learn to manage it.”
The Moderator also corrected a common misconception attributed to Benjamin Franklin as “God helps those who help themselves.” He firmly stated that “God helps those who seek His help,” underscoring the importance of complete dependence on divine strength.
Referencing Romans 3:18, he observed that pain and human life are often synonymous, but it is through these experiences that faith is tested and hope is built.
Paying tribute to Mama Akwaley, the Moderator described her as a woman who served humanity with grace, kindness, and unwavering faith. He called on the congregation to emulate her example, stating that the Christian’s mandate is to serve others meaningfully.
In a striking moment of reflection, the Moderator posed a question to all present: “If you make it to heaven, will someone come to you and say, ‘Thank you for touching my life on earth’? Or will your life on earth be forgotten?”
His message was one of comfort and challenge, a call to remain steadfast in God, to serve with love, and to live a life that leaves an eternal impact.
The funeral, attended by Past Principal Officers of PCG, GAC, church leaders, clergy, catechists, PCG membership, friends, and sympathizers from across the country, was a solemn but spirit-filled celebration of a life well lived, Mrs. Akweley Odonkor.
May her humble soul rest in the bosom of the LORD. Amen!
By: Rev. Immanuel Wiafe
