I vividly recall the excitement of Shrove Tuesday as a child; the scent of freshly cut lemons contrasting with the warm sweetness of pancakes sizzling in the pan. It was a heartening prelude to the 40 days of Lent that followed. As I’ve grown, I’ve come to appreciate Lent more deeply. Now, I welcome a chance to prepare for Easter, reflecting on the sacrifices made by Jesus and the temptations he encountered.
Easter is the most important festival of the Christian calendar, bringing a profound sense of joy, renewal and hope. This season not only marks the end of our fasting but also represents a beautiful moment of rebirth in our lives. It’s a reminder that even in times of sacrifice and reflection, there is a promise of new beginnings and the joy that comes with them.
1 Peter 2:24 mentions that Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead three days after his crucifixion: “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness.” Through Jesus’ immense suffering, we find hope and have been granted salvation. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is at the heart of our faith. Now Jesus has been raised from the dead, God can transform our deepest struggles and hardships into moments of renewal and hope. Together, we can find solace in understanding that even our most painful experiences can lead to beautiful resurrection.
Life, rebirth, resurrection and renewal are intricately woven into humanity’s essence. If the universe was a quilt, resurrection would be its vibrant centre. Easter is a beautiful reminder of God’s gift to us all. On the subject of gifts, some years ago, a dear friend gifted me with a lovely book named Anam Cara (Bantam), which translates as ‘soul friend’. One quote in particular stood out for me:
“As water takes whatever shape it is in, So free may you be about who you become.”
Renewal, borne from the miracle of resurrection, flows like a life-giving river, shaping us into the harmony of creation itself. It envelops all of God’s creations in a warm embrace of love and eternal purpose. When we recognise that the divine dwells within matter, our faith in the resurrection of the body deepens. In this light, the eternal Christ emerges as a luminous guide, a promise that reassures us of the profound events unfolding in our lives. This vibrant personification offers a soothing presence, inviting us to explore and cherish the richness of our experiences along the journey.
Life is a series of small ‘deaths’ of the self, offering opportunities for transformation. As we embrace this season, let’s look forward to rebirth and fresh starts. To me, tulips and Easter symbolise this spirit of renewal; tulips’ soft petals and sturdy stems represent new beginnings, making them a cherished emblem of hope. I wish you an Easter filled with flowers, love and hope.
Jesus, we are eternally thankful
for your resurrection,
Your gift of salvation
And sacrifice for our liberty.
Almighty and loving Father,
Fortify our faith so your infinite wisdom
And hope may lift our hearts.
God of mercy, we are deeply grateful for
the 33 years of your life on earth.
Your everlasting life brings us peace
and the promise of eternal life.
Thank you for your wonderful gifts.
Compassionate and healing Father, may
your resounding light wash away our sins
So that we may be born anew in
your perfect image.
Thank you, sweet Jesus, for your unconditional love, understanding, the
gift of life itself and the generosity of
rebirth and renewal.
May we humbly grow to know you
more deeply this Easter,
May your love grant us peace, calm
and clarity.
Amen.
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