DEAR FRIENDS,

As I write this, the signs that spring is upon us are in abundance. The daffodils are beginning to bloom, buds are appearing on trees and drab gardens are once again revealing many shades of green, and the days are lighter for longer.
            

I really enjoy this time of year. The winter seems to last for ever, especially once the Christmas celebrations have past. Everything seems cold and gloomy, the days are short and it seems that this will last forever. Yet spring brings the promise of new life, new beginnings. A time when we can look forward to long summer evenings, enjoying walks, barbeques, relaxing in the garden with friends and of course the eagerly anticipated summer holiday.

Yet the stories in the media seem to be all bad news; threats of terrorism, war, murder, crime. There are fears over the health of the nation especially over the growing problems of obesity and mental health which can leave us feeling a little nervous for ours, and our children’s future. Rising house prices and uncertainties for pension provision don’t help. Personal problems such as illness or bereavement can leave us anxious and fearful for the future and wondering what it is all about.

There is hope, there is meaning, there is purpose. The celebrations of Easter are like spring because it is full of signs of hope that point to a brighter future. This is why it is eagerly awaited and celebrated by all Christians because of what Jesus did 2000 years ago and still does today.

As we read the Gospel accounts of the death and resurrection of Jesus, we can get a feel of the hopelessness, despair and failure of His followers as they flee at His arrest or huddle around the cross and watch Him suffer a humiliating death. Yet on the third day, how they must have rejoiced and celebrated when they saw, touched and ate with the risen Jesus. I would love to have been there and witness Mary’s tears change from disbelief to utter joy when she heard Jesus say her name. Or Thomas’ doubts turn to certainty when he sees and touches the scars.

Even today there are Christians in many parts of the world who live in extreme poverty or face persecution for professing the name of Jesus, but they can endure this because of the good news of Easter.

My prayer is that this Easter you may feel and experience this joy and peace that the risen Jesus offers to all who call upon His name.