Death could not handle Him

David Jones on how Jesus’s disciples did not realise the day of resurrection was on the horizon

THE devastating sight on Monday night of Notre Dame Cathedral engulfed by fire was shocking and upsetting to say the least.

One of the largest Cathedrals in the world which has graced the Parisian landscape since the 12th century being consumed by flames before our very eyes.

It was painful and upsetting to watch and while firefighters fought gallantly to bring control, the collapse of the main tower was an indication that there was little that could be done so ferocious were the flames.

Religious artefacts, priceless artwork and the irreplaceable stainedglass windows of Notre Dame lost forever. French President Emmanuel Macron’s tearful face reflecting the deep sorrow and disbelief of his people – a building precious and loved by those of religious faith and none - their nation’s most celebrated treasure.

In November 1992 fire broke out in Windsor Castle, the largest inhabited castle in the world and one of the official residences of the Queen. The castle suffered extensive damage but was almost fully restored within a few years.

In 2001 the world trade centre in New York was completely destroyed by terrorist action, so much more a tragedy because of the massive loss of life. Today in downtown Manhattan there’s not only a fitting memorial those who died but a new trade centre raised through the determination that such tragedy should not have the final word.

There’s no doubt that the story of Notre Dame is not at an end.

Even as the flames consumed this most loved edifice, French leaders were speaking of restoration and re-building. A new chapter in the history of Notre Dame will soon begin – from despair will come hope of restoration and renewal for all the centuries to come!

Central to the message of this Holy week is the death of a young man on a cross. Nothing unusual about that, Roman authority was not to be challenged and the cruel and shameful deterrent of crucifixion was a means of making that known.

The disciples of Jesus fraught with sorrow and despair at the death of their master did not realise or even contemplate that Sunday, the day of resurrection was on the horizon.

We, however, know the full story - that’s why we can this Good Friday look beyond the pain and anguish of Calvary’s Cross to that third day – when Jesus broke the chains of death and gave to those doubting disciples. Death could not handle Him, the grave could not hold Him. The joy of Easter - He is risen, He is risen indeed!