Venkat Raman
Auckland, April 20, 2025
Easter, one of the most profound and sacred observances in Christianity, was marked by more than two billion Christians worldwide today (Sunday, April 20, 2025).
Easter is a testament to the triumph of light over darkness, life over death, and love over sin. It is more than just a celebration; it is a deep spiritual journey that resonates with millions worldwide. At its heart lies the passion, crucifixion, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, our Lord, Saviour, and Master, who willingly bore the weight of human transgressions to offer salvation.
For Christians, Easter is a time of reflection, renewal, and rejoicing. It compels believers to ponder the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus and embrace the boundless grace He bestows upon humanity. To truly grasp the magnitude of Easter, one must journey through the preceding solemn days, each holding unique significance in the tapestry of redemption.
(INL Photo by Venkat Raman)
Lent: A Time of Reflection and Sacrifice
Lent, spanning forty days (excluding Sundays), is a period of penitence, prayer, and fasting observed by millions of Christians everywhere. Rooted in the biblical account of Jesus’ forty days in the wilderness, Lent is a time of spiritual refinement, where believers abstain from worldly distractions, seeking a deeper connection with God.
This sacred season is marked by self-discipline, mirroring Christ’s own sacrifice. It encourages introspection – an invitation to examine one’s faith, let go of sinful habits, and embrace purity. The act of fasting and abstinence serves as a humbling reminder that earthly pleasures pale in comparison to the divine grace of God.
Ash Wednesday, the solemn gateway to Lent, is a day of repentance and humility. On this day, Christians receive ashes upon their foreheads, often in the shape of a cross. The ashes serve as a poignant symbol, reminding believers of their mortality: “For dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return” (Genesis 3:19).
It is a moment of deep reflection, compelling Christians to acknowledge their imperfections and seek forgiveness. Ash Wednesday urges the faithful to embark on a spiritual pilgrimage, embracing renewal and returning wholeheartedly to the love of Christ.
Maundy Thursday commemorates the final evening Jesus spent with His disciples before His crucifixion. It is the night of the Last Supper, where Jesus humbly washed the feet of His disciples, a profound act of servitude and love.
During this Sacred Meal, Christ instituted the Holy Eucharist, blessing the bread and wine as His body and blood. He instructed His disciples to partake in this act in remembrance of Him. “This is my body, given for you; do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19).
Maundy Thursday underscores the essence of sacrificial love, urging humanity to serve one another with compassion and humility, just as Christ did.
Good Friday: The Agony, The Cross, The Redemption
Perhaps the most sombre day in the Christian Calendar, Good Friday marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is a day of mourning, yet one of profound reverence, as believers remember Christ’s agony upon the cross – the lashes upon His back, the crown of thorns upon His head, the nails piercing His hands and feet.
Despite His suffering, Jesus bore it all with unwavering love, fulfilling the will of God for the redemption of humankind. His final words, “It is finished,” signalled the completion of His Divine Mission, to atone for the sins of the world.
Good Friday is a stark reminder of the depth of God’s love, demonstrating that salvation was purchased at an immeasurable cost.
Holy Saturday: The Silence Before the Glory
Holy Saturday is a Day of Waiting; a solemn pause between sorrow and joy.
As Jesus lay in the tomb, His followers mourned, their hearts burdened with grief and uncertainty. But unbeknownst to them, a glorious dawn was approaching.
This day is a reflection of faith, a call to trust in God’s Divine Plan, even in moments of despair. For soon, death would be defeated, and hope would arise.
Easter Sunday: The Resurrection and the Promise of Eternal Life
At the break of dawn, the stone was rolled away. The tomb was empty. Christ had risen!
Easter Sunday is the pinnacle of Christian faith, a celebration of Jesus’ victory over death.
His Resurrection stands as the ultimate testament to God’s omnipotence, proving that darkness cannot prevail against divine light.
“He is not here; He has risen, just as He said” (Matthew 28:6).
The Resurrection brings unfathomable joy to believers, affirming the promise of eternal life for those who place their trust in Christ. Easter calls upon humanity to embrace new beginnings, to cast away fear, and to walk in the righteousness of God.
Easter Monday: Carrying the Message Forward
While Easter Sunday marks the joy of Christ’s victory, Easter Monday encourages believers to go forth and spread His message. It is a day to reflect on the Resurrection and its implications for daily life – to live with faith, courage, and unwavering devotion.
Just as Christ instructed His disciples to proclaim the Gospel to the nations, Easter Monday reminds us that faith is not confined to a single day. It is a lifelong journey, one of love, trust, and unwavering worship.
Easter in New Zealand
Easter is celebrated in New Zealand with a mix of Christian traditions and secular festivities. Church Services: Many Christians attend Special Services on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, reflecting on the crucifixion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Some Churches hold Sunrise Services and Processions.
Both Good Friday and Easter Monday are public holidays, giving people a four-day weekend to relax and spend time with family.
Easter Egg Hunts: Families and communities organise Easter egg hunts, especially for children, making it a fun-filled event. Hot cross buns are a staple Easter treat, enjoyed across the country. Chocolate Easter eggs are also widely exchanged.
Outdoor Activities: Since Easter falls in autumn in New Zealand, many families take advantage of the last warm days by going on camping trips, hiking, or barbecues. Some communities incorporate Pacific Island traditions into their Easter observances, reflecting New Zealand’s diverse population.
While Easter has deep religious significance, many Kiwis also see it as a time for family gatherings, relaxation, and enjoying the outdoors.
Trusting and Worshipping Jesus Christ, Our Saviour
At the heart of Easter lies the undeniable truth: Jesus Christ is our God, our Saviour, and our Master. He is the Embodiment of Divine Love, the Beacon of Eternal Hope, and the Path to Salvation.
To trust in Christ is to relinquish fear, to embrace grace, and to walk in righteousness. Worshipping Him is an act of gratitude, acknowledging that His sacrifice was not in vain. He came so that humanity might have life, and life in abundance (John 10:10).
As Easter unfolds, let it not be merely a celebration, but a transformation. May hearts be renewed, faith be strengthened, and souls rejoice in the eternal promise of salvation through Jesus Christ.
For He has risen! Hallelujah!
