Easter’s all about that crazy little thing called love

Pastor Mitch Jordan reflects on a hero and his sacrifice, on behalf of the Council of Wellington Churches.

Love – what is so special about this phenomenon we call love? Songs have been written about it, lives have been given in pursuit of it, and it has been at the centre of some of the greatest stories ever told – just think about Romeo and Juliet, Samson and Delilah, and the infamous Mr Darcy.

Love sells – we all love a good love story – and there is nothing better than that delicious feeling you get when someone says ‘‘I love you.’’

Easter is one of these world-changing events that really is all about love in action. Sure, bunny rabbits, eggs and hot cross buns are great, but that’s not the real story – there is more to Easter than marshmallow and chocolate.

Easter is perhaps the greatest expression of love the world has ever known. Love from a God who gave His son Jesus so that each one of us could make this love story our very own, by believing in Him.

Jesus is the very picture of love – Jesus willingly gave up his life, and died a cruel and barbaric death on a Roman cross in order to make a way for every person to experience, first hand,true love.

Yes, the hero of the story dies, but that is not the end of the story. Like all good romances, love prevails, love wins, love overcomes. Yes, Jesus may have died but in his death he defeated evil once and for all and Easter is the celebration of this victory.

Jesus rose from the dead, love triumphing over all, and Easter is a time where we remember both the sacrifice and the victory that is symbolised by the cross.

Here in Aotearoa, New Zealand we have a rich tradition of celebrating Easter – with many people applauding the opportunity for a much-needed long holiday weekend. Easter can be more than a sleep-in or a shopping spree – it can be an opportunity for each one of us to go on a journey towards love.

This Easter, may you encounter love in all its greatness. Don’t settle for second best or cheap imitations – true love is worth looking for! Perhaps this Easter you will discover the greatest love the world has ever known.

‘‘Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.’’ 1 Corinthians 13 v 4-7 (NIV translation).