It’s Resurrection Sunday for Christians today! They will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
As biblical history will tell us, today, Christ rose from the dead. Christians place great value on today, which is arguably the most important event in Christianity, for it attests to the very essence of the faith – faith itself and belief in the word of God.
From the pain Christ endured to His crucifixion on Mount Calvary, outside Jerusalem, to His resurrection on the third day, are vital elements that hold the faithful together. The events inspire them.
It is the base Christians lean on, to motivate them, and encourage them through life. It is a joyous occasion for the faithful and many would have gone to church to listen to the message of salvation and relive the story of the crucifixion and of the resurrection.
Spiritual conviction can be quite powerful in laying the platform for the faithful to celebrate their beliefs, and share in the good message that comes during Easter.
In the face of the pain and great suffering Christ endured, His crucifixion, Christians believe, was for the redemption of sin.
It was a sacrifice for all mankind. There is hope for mankind.
As most churches around the country relive the story of the Crucifixion, the scenes of drama and action on the stage will inch out emotions.
They will trigger thoughtful response among many of the faithful, giving meaning to the scenes before them today.
Perhaps today is also an opportunity for us all to reflect on the message of hope.
Let us be motivated to do the right thing always and inspire others.
Again, we say, perhaps it is time for us to also learn about other religions, and teachings. We live in a multi-racial country. We have long embraced other ethnicities even if the politicians will say otherwise.
Proof is in how we have lived together, side-side for decades.
Remember how far removed we are from the volatile countries of the world, where ethnicity is a killer and people kill others because of the colour of their skin and differences in religions and other factors.
Yet, in Fiji, we may argue over some of our differences but still live together! We see neighbours of different ethnicities and religions living side by side for decades. Like many countries around the world, they may have their compounds fenced, and they live their lives separately. They may have their differences, yet they live together, going about their daily lives, with relative peace of mind.
The killings in the Gaza between the Palestinians and Israeli soldiers, and the killings in the Ukraine and Russian war amplify our differences. Wars in other countries, and in history tell stories of death and destruction. They stand as an apt reminder for us about how special we are as a nation. The difference is pretty clear! We are relatively safer in comparison.
We walk our streets, passing people of different ethnicities, ride on the same buses, watch a movie in the same theatre, and basically eat at restaurants sitting side by side or ordering food standing side by side!
In an age where frustrations can quickly spill over into public forums and social media, we should choose our words carefully. The politicians will highlight our differences, creating fear and a sense of insecurity, but let’s strive to be considerate of one another, remembering that our strength lies not just in our diversity, but in how we embrace and respect that diversity. Let’s remind ourselves about just how special we are, living in a nation that is embracing of all ethnicities and religions! Look around you today, and consider that!
As Christians celebrate the resurrection of Christ and the hope it brings, let us be inspired by the message of love, forgiveness, and unity. Let’s assist in building a nation grounded in understanding and mutual respect.
There is a message of hope today. Let it echo in our hearts, our homes, and our communities.
