By Bishop Tim Harris
AT the writing of this short reflection, the war in Ukraine continues to produce horrific scenes depicting death and destruction.
These images are real and confronting, especially for those of us who have never experienced war first-hand.
COVID-19 and the recent floods in South-East Queensland and beyond add to a sense of “heaviness of heart”. A kind of “perfect storm” has descended upon us.
Yet, into this darkness comes light. The theme of Easter morning echoes that of the Easter Vigil.
Our faith tells us that Jesus is raised from the dead and those who believe and are baptised share in this resurrection to new life.
Easter remembers and celebrates the very foundation of Christianity.
In short, all will be well. No perfect storm or a collective dread will have the last word.
This is always true even as the Pope calls this war a “senseless massacre and sacrilegious attack on human life”.
Easter restores life for death is always defeated.
The tragedy is of course that humanity chooses “death” at times even as it is offered life. This is called sin.
This journey from Ashes to Easter is the story of life as we continue to reflect and pray, turning away from sin as we go and seek to embrace the Gospel.
The truth of Easter shines brightly in a world in need of healing, restoration and reconciliation.
Human beings are made in the image and likeness of God and so often we as individuals do not live up to this. Hence, the powerful reminder this Easter that now is the time to radically let go and let God.
Resurrection is not only a victory for Christ but a victory for us as well.
He is the alpha and the omega, the beginning and the end.
Christ is the only One who gives total meaning to our existence.
This Easter we are invited to rise with Christ.
Trust in Him in these troubled times (and always) as we sing: Alleluia Alleluia
Bishop Tim Harris is the Bishop of Townsville
