His life upon the cross

Easter is an amazing time of the year; a special moment where we take the time to remember the great sacrifice of Jesus as He willingly gave up His life upon the cross, and particularly so for those who have faith in God.
I find it fascinating to read through each of the four Gospels, as they all uniquely record the events of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Perhaps this Easter you might find the time to read each of them?

This past Sunday, was Palm Sunday, a moment in our calendar when we remember the arrival of Jesus into Jerusalem. Matthew 21, Mark 11, Luke 19, and John 12 all record this event. As Jesus arrived in Jerusalem, He was welcomed with what almost seemed like fanfare and celebration; yet in the matter of just days, the very same crowds who joyously welcomed Him cried out ‘crucify Him, crucify Him’!

This coming Friday, as we enter into the Easter weekend, we pause to consider Good Friday, the day on which we remember Jesus’ death upon the cross, and His burial in a tomb. Then we eagerly anticipate Resurrection Sunday when we celebrate that Jesus rose from the dead, defeating death and living eternally at the right hand of God the Father!

Easter is full of wonder and mystery.

Yet, for many, perhaps one might say the majority of society, Easter is simply a four-day long weekend, with some vague historical undertones, filled with chocolate bunnies and hot cross buns. Oh, and a football match. The contrast is striking.
As we enter into Easter, may we be those who, in the midst of the fun, food, and gatherings, have our eyes fixed firmly upon Jesus. May you be inspired by Hebrews 12:1-3. Look it up! May His mercy, grace and love consume your thoughts, invade your heart, fill your spirit. The events of Easter are life-changing and profound!

Mark’s Gospel tells us these words, reading from chapter 16:2-6 (NIV):

"Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?” But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away. As they entered the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in a white robe sitting on the right side, and they were alarmed. “Don’t be alarmed,” he said. “You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here!

The one whom we worship, is alive! Death has been defeated! I pray that this Easter will bring you a renewed sense of hope and faith in Jesus, and that joy and thankfulness will overflow from with you as you think about, and thank our God for what Jesus has done.

Peace be upon you.
Adam Wood
Director of Faith Formation & Wellbeing