Lent leads us to the Cross.

Lent leads us to death.

And Lent leads us to the other side of death. To Resurrection. To new life.

Easter is still 2 weeks away but we are surrounded by daily updates on the CoronaVirus; we are surrounded by gloom; and confusion; and hopelessness; and despair; and fear. We hear daily reports that it’s going to get worse. We are told to stay in our homes. Our children ask questions. Friends are anxious. People die. All around people are reminded of the frailty and vulnerability of human life.

You know what?

Death happens.

We live in the shadow of death.

From dust you came, and to dust you shall return says Genesis 3:19.

But you know what else?

We also live in the light of the resurrection.

We live in light of 1 Corinthians 15:54 - of death being swallowed up in victory.

We live set free from the fear of death….

…because…

…we live with the hope of eternal life.

All around I see signs of Spring.

Bulbs emerging.

Buds slowly emerging on branches.

Leaves beginning to unfurl.

The birdsong serenading the morning.

In fact yesterday, I watched a video of a bear emerging from hibernation.

Spring is here. New life bursts forth all around us.

So folks, let us not fear. Let us be full of joy.

Let us not fear, let us delight in the resurrection.

Let us not fear, death has been defeated.

Let us not fear, let us know the peace that the triumphant Christ brings.

Let us nor fear, let us rest in His power.

Christ is risen from the dead,

trampling over death by death

Come awake, come awake,

Come and rise up from the grave.

I read this today…