In the discussions of this life and our material reality, we want proof. Science is built on experiments in order to validate an idea with proof. But faith works with a different reference point. Rather than demanding proof, it begins with trust. When a romantic couple begins an intimate conversation the topic might turn to something like: “I love you! Do you love me too?” We wouldn’t respond with, “well where’s the proof?” Our relationship would begin and indeed would grow on what we call ‘trust and faith.’ But some might counter that as far too simplistic, arguing that, ‘proof is in the eating’ (in other words the proof of love comes from our actions and interaction). I am called into counseling situations at times when couples break up and I can assure you that when ‘faith and trust’ are violated, then those issues of ‘proof’ are put up as reasons why one person does not love the other. How can we then ever do enough to meet the demand of ‘prove it to me!’


In the Bible we read that “Jesus died for us while we were yet still sinners.” So forgiveness of sins, the gift of eternal life, those things we talk about as salvation, all come from an act of kindness towards us ‘while we were still rejecting everything about God’. God’s answer to our question, ‘were is the proof?’, is found on the cross that Jesus would dare to go even to death (our lot in life) to raise us up with him (God’s gift for us) to enjoy what the Bible calls ‘heaven.’ I have no proof of that – but I trust God’s promise and put my faith in that assurance. We call that faith. On Easter literally millions of people around the world will express their faith that this has become their reality. My prayer is that it may also be yours.


Jesus once summarised the reason for his coming to live among us with this thought: “I have come to give you life, life in all it fullness and in abundance.” (John 10:10) Happy and joyous Easter everyone.


Pastor Dirk