Let us use Easter to ref lect on life, our communities and our world

IN THE aftermath of the crucifixion, people around the cross were left with two choices – to continue in denial or worship Him as the Messiah, the son of God.

Earlier in the gospel story the choice of the people was between Barabbas, a renowned murderer, or a man of peace.

A few weeks ago, in Christchurch, one man chose hatred over love, short sightedness over vision, and insecurity over hope.

Irrespective of your view, perception or ideology of God, let us use this Easter to reflect on life, our communities, and the world in which we live.

Religious celebrations I believe have not only significance for the pious, but for the observer too.

The people around the cross were indirectly and directly affected by the happenings in their town. We are confronted by choices everywhere we go. Jesus Christ in his darkest moments on the cross found the capacity to forgive.

Martin Luther King said: “We must develop and maintain the capacity to forgive. He who is devoid of the power to forgive is devoid of the power to love. There is some good in the worst of us and some evil in the best of us. When we discover this, we are less prone to hate our enemies.”

My profound hope is that the power of love can once again be seen passionately in the positive contributions of the citizens of this world.

Jesus Christ made the choice to die passionately on the cross of Calvary to inspire hope and life everlasting.

Martin Luther King said a man who won’t die for something is not fit to live.

There are always many people around the cross who are either spectators or participants.

This weekend, make a choice. Let us once again discover the power of passion.

This weekend, let us remember and give thanks but, maybe more importantly, let us move away from the celebrations towards a life of purpose and passion. In a world of self-serving idealism, let us choose a life of service.