On Maundy Thursday, Jesus met with his disciples for what was their Last Supper. In humility and love he washed his disciples’ feet. He really was the Servant King. Jesus knew what lay ahead of him and he prepared his friends. Later he was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemene by Roman Guards and on Good Friday, following his trial, the crowds called for him to be crucified! He died on the cross, next to two thieves.

The light seemed to have gone out. The hope of the world seemed to have been taken away.

This last week has been a very difficult one for everybody. The numbers of those who have lost their lives to the COVID disease in hospital each day are scarcely believable. Sadly, the actual number of deceased persons is even bigger because those who have died at home or in Care and Residential homes are not included.

Despite the sunshine on Easter Saturday it may seem that the light of our nation has dimmed. However, Easter Day brings both light and hope to us all. It is the day when God raised Jesus from the dead. The Resurrection story reminds us that God defeated both sin and death as His Son was raised in glory from the dead. Light and hope returned to the hearts of the disciples and we are all reminded that God knows us all by name and welcomes all the departed with the Easter promise of eternal life.

This Easter, live in the light and hope of the Resurrection story and be light and hope in your local community, to your neighbours and families and friends. Be light and hope to those in need and in support of all Key Workers, not least those who offer us all light and hope in our darkest hours. We remember in particular the thousands of professional health care workers throughout the UK.

Worship may be suspended in our church building this year, but our joy in the light and hope provided by the Resurrection story certainly is not!

Happy Easter everybody from St Peter’s Church, Sheringham.

Every Blessing,

Christian