MINISTERS MUSINGS

March 2008 Musing

THE CROSS

Even after a mild winter the countryside shows signs of waking up. The birds are singing, the lambs are gambolling and daffodils, snowdrops and primroses are in full bloom. The sun is getting higher in the sky and its warmth gives us all a ‘lift’. During this lovely season comes the greatest of all Christian festivals, Easter. We will be celebrating new life and resurrection with our Easter Praise, and children will be enjoying their Easter eggs, symbols of the empty tomb.

Just as spring follows the cold and darkness of winter, so Easter follows the chill and sadness of Good Friday. There was a time when Good Friday was observed as the most solemn day of the year. All shops were closed, long services and vigils were held in churches and Christian walks of witness following a wooden cross were held.

We engaged only in one seasonal treat just on that day of the year; hot cross buns. Now everywhere bustles with secular activity and hot cross buns can be purchased at any time. The day has lost its significance, but not for the Christian.

The cross is at the centre of our faith, because it was there that Christ made the supreme sacrifice for all time. Only when we kneel humbly at the foot of that cross and accept what Christ has done for us can we experience the full joy of resurrection. So step aside from the busy world this Good Friday, make your way to church or chapel, and remember and give thanks to God for His love which knows no limits.

Isaac Watts puts it so succinctly in his lovely hymn;

Were the whole realm of nature mine,

That were an offering far too small.

Love so amazing, so divine,

Demands my soul, my life, my all.

A happy, blessed and meaningful Eastertide to you all.