The meaning of Easter

What does Easter mean to you? If a straw poll were taken in the middle of your city, town or suburb what would people say?

Sixty years ago, most people would probably have responded by saying Easter is about the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Back in the day, the majority of Australians at census time would have put their religion as either Catholic or one of the other Christian religions.

Today, Australia is a very different place. People from all four corners of the globe have settled here in recent decades, many from non-Christian countries. Coupled with the fact that our society has become increasingly secularised with many people not declaring any religious belief, it is indeed a changed world.

For youngsters, the excitement at Easter is palpable. The thrill of the Easter egg hunt and receiving large chocolate eggs from family, relatives and friends is almost too much to bear. The sugar hit can last for days sending mum and dad around the proverbial bend.

But Easter is far more than Easter egg hunts, chocolate eggs, hot cross buns and family barbecues. It is about Jesus and what his life means to us. He led an honest life; first as a carpenter then as a preacher. His messages were simple and to the point.

While so much has changed in 2000 years, Jesus’ message of love, peace and hope has remained a constant. Irrespective of what you do: whether you work as a carpenter, plumber, tax consultant, painter, or are a stay-at-home mum or dad, treating people as you would have them treat you is not a bad way to live your life. It is about love and respect.

While Jesus’ followers were distraught when he was crucified, their beliefs and hopes dashed on the cross, on Easter Sunday that all changed when he rose from the dead. His resurrection gave his followers at the time and in the two millennia since the hope of ever lasting life.

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