Dear everyone,
This Easter message is being prepared during one of the worst snow-ups for 50 years. Last week was the beginning of Spring; but we have gone back to Winter instead!
In Nature things do not always progress automatically from one stage to another. In the seasons of many people’s lives too there are many periods when things do not go smoothly. Hardship and tragedy is the experience of many people as they move through their stages of life. During difficult times they need our support and prayers.
In this week, Holy Week, The triumph of Palm Sunday leads through to the humiliation of Good Friday and the glory of Easter Day.
Because of his divine calling, Jesus had to ‘face the music’, the forces of evil. He was put on trial, but no real case was made against him. He suffered insults, all the pain of a cruel death, and was crucified on a cross between two thieves.
Good Friday is central to our faith, because we believe that Jesus died ‘to make us good,’ He is the One through whom our sins are forgiven.
Just as ‘winter’ however eventually progresses through to ‘spring’ and regeneration, so Jesus passes through ‘death’ to ‘new life.’
The message of Easter Day, is Resurrection. ‘He is not here he is risen’ is the message that the women hear from the angels. We too are reminded that Christ’s death is not the end, but to those who believe in him it is the progression to a ‘new beginning,’ a new ‘spring.’ Jesus’ resurrection opens up another stage on the way to ‘eternal life.’
May we all find great joy and hope in this.
Pauline joins me too in wishing you all a very Happy Easter!
Every blessing,
David.
PS .For anyone who is not a regular worshipper at any church, who lives in the vicinity, I am leading the Good Friday Service at 6.00pm at Mapperley Methodist Church, and the Easter Day Services at Sherwood M/c (8.00am Communion Service) and Calverton M/c (10.30 am. Holy Communion.)
It would be great to see you. D.
