Easter people

I have tried not to bore too much with pilgrimage memories but one is strong and recently reinforced as you will see. Much else happened in Jerusalem but the last five days were spent in Galilee. What a contrast - to spend time by the lake and hillsides with plenty of opportunity for reflection post-Easter. Which of course is what happened for the first disciples. Indeed, the whole of the New Testament is written in the light of the Resurrection. Now they know just how extraordinary this man was and they could view his ministry among them, the Word made flesh, as the unique world-changing story it is.

Our last day in Galilee was a Sunday when we shared in a farewell service at the simple chapel at Peniel-by-Galilee close to the lakeshore.  Four members of the group had been preparing for this service for many years.  John, Gordon, Molly and Chris had all requested baptism.  John was a member of my own church but I needed to work with the others concerning key issues about discipleship and that their home fellowships would happily receive them! The lake bed was rocky and the lake was cool. The whole group witnessed their confession as the four were baptised.  How we sang, prayed and rejoiced. I could not think of a better way of ending our time together - obeying Jesus with commitment to live all our lives in his gift of eternal life.

I said this memory was reinforced because I received an Easter card from Chris last week.  As a teacher he was supported by his headmaster who was also in the group.  Inside the card Chris wrote:  May God bless you at Easter and always, love (18th April - the anniversary of my baptism at Peniel). Chris has kept in touch ever since 1993 and never forgets this date. Wonderful!

I love the description Easter People. It can be true for all of us as we move on post-Easter.  Because Jesus is alive we face Covid-19 with him.  Now that's extraordinary!