New Beginnings

Easter is the season that reminds us of new beginnings. Spring is happening, colours change, new life is growing, flowers are breaking through and the days are getting lighter. It is the time of change; a moment where things seem brighter and more hopeful. When we think back to that first Easter, the disciples were overwhelmed by what had just happened. Their friend had been taken from them and killed. The one they thought would rescue them was gone and I imagine all hope had too.

However, just three days later, the view became so much brighter and hope returned – their lives changed in an instant. Jesus was alive! The tomb was empty, and the darkness and despair gave way to hope and joy. They turned around to a better view; one with a new beginning.

“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life, the one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die.”

John 11:25-26

We too can celebrate and stand in the hope of a new beginning this Easter. We can reflect on the crucifixion of Christ; when the view seemed so dark, but then with the glorious resurrection, things suddenly were much brighter and better. A new beginning that bought hope to everyone and still does today. It gives us courage to turn from the empty tomb, to change our perspective and to look out on the view that is before us. The first Easter teaches us that life never ends and love never dies!

“Just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too many live a new life.”

Romans 6:4

God has given us a wonderful gift called grace; and because He loves us so much and is merciful towards us, by His grace He gives us something we don’t deserve and we cannot earn. A whole new life! Your past or present circumstances do not have to determine your future or your identity anymore. Easter is a reminder that no matter what you have encountered in life, God will take you as you are and let you start your own new beginning. God is love. He sent His son to the grave because He loves us so much! What an incredible display of overpowering, irresistible and constant love! Jesus died for you knowing that you might never love Him back: that’s an act of true love!

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

John 3:16

This Easter, remember the gift you have been given of a new beginning. Whether this is a new decision to follow Christ for the first time, or renewing your commitment to the relationship you already have with Jesus, we have all been given the opportunity to live a new, fresh life as a child of God. A new start in which God will support and guide you in the right directions, mould and shape you into the person you were created to be, and strengthen and comfort you throughout all of life’s ups and downs.

As you take in the beauty of springtime, remember the promise of brighter days to come, and the everlasting love God has for you. I pray you may experience the many blessings of Christ throughout this joyful season. I would encourage you, if you do not already know Jesus, to take up this gift of a new beginning and seek more of Him for yourself. Likewise, if you are already a Christian, I would encourage you to reflect on your relationship with God and focus more on Him, and listen to what He is speaking to you at this time.

Wishing you all a very Happy Easter! May you be filled with such hope, joy and peace!

God Bless xx