The poof of the Resurrection is inescapable. The gospels encapsulate and proclaim this reality.

When all other explanations for the empty tomb run aground, all that is left is the truth of what happened. Jesus really did rise from the dead after three days. The seminal book “Who move the stone,” by Frank Morison explains all – see it on Amazon.

The Christian faith is based upon this reality. “If our hope for Christ is for this life only, we are the most unfortunate of all people,” says St Paul. I Cor.15.14

So why does the secular world not accept this reality?

“And indeed, everybody who does wrong hates the light and avoids it, for fear his actions should be exposed; but the man who lives by the truth comes out into the light, so that it may be plainly seen that what he does is done in God.” John 3. 20 – 21

And in Matthew 4. 15 – 16 where Isaiah is quoted in relation to Christ, “The people who lived in darkness has seen a great light; on those who dwell in the land and shadow of death a light has dawned.”

Again in the words of St. Paul – at the sound of the last trumpet, “the dead will be raised, imperishable.”

I Cor. 15.52

Our heavenly Father longs to share this new life with all, “Yes, God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not be lost but may have eternal life.” John 3. 16

Christians live this new life in the here and now and are resident aliens in the world. Christians celebrate this new life each Sunday and especially this Sunday, Easter Sunday, the day when Jesus really did rise from then dead.

The trumpet shall sound

Jesus is Lord – now and forever!

Today is Palm Sunday. The account of the last hours of Jesus are read in churches the world over. The significance of the death of Jesus by crucifixion was not understood by anyone at the time, even the apostles did not fully understand. But Jesus’ sacrifice of his life changed everything for humanity forever and the crucifix became the most recognised and revered symbol of any since the dawn of time. The greatest sign of love the world would ever know.

By Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross the way was opened for all to be reconciled with our loving Father God and to come into his kingdom in the here and now and forever. We hear that the veil of the Temple in Jerusalem which only the high priest could enter to make sacrifice for sin on behalf of the people was torn in two as Jesus died. From now on everyone could come into the presence of God, for the sacrifice has been made by Jesus Christ, God’s only begotten Son the Lamb of God.

The Easter eggs custom fuelled by chocolate manufacturers and super markets is a reminder of the new life which is celebrated by Christians the world over But at the start of Holy week we recognise the suffering and agony of Jesus Son of God who made this new life possible.

Think of someone who gave their life for another. Pause and take stock. Such a sacrifice is the height of goodness latent in every human being.

As Martin Luther King said “Love is creative, understanding goodwill for all men. It is the refusal to defeat any individual. When you rise to the level of love, of its great beauty and power, you seek only to defeat evil systems. Individuals who happen to be caught up in that system, you love, but you seek to defeat the system.”

“As we welcome Jesus on Palm Sunday may we have hope, strength and courage to face life’s challenges.”