John in the opening of his Gospel proclaims that in Jesus “was life, and the life was the light of all people” (John 1:4). This light shines most brightly in the love that Jesus shows as he lays down his life for the good of all people and the whole of creation.
The account of Good Friday tells us of a darkness coming over the land as Jesus hung on the cross. It appeared that darkness had extinguished the light. But, Easter Day is the declaration that the Light of the World has not and cannot be put out. For “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it (John 1:5).
The resurrection of Jesus celebrated at Easter is a declaration of the transforming power of Christ overcoming darkness and bringing hope.
We continue to see much darkness over the world. We have travelled through the darkness of Covid-19. We have seen the darkness of racism and the darkness of domestic violence and the darkness of gender inequality and the abuse of women. Thankfully, light has begun to shine on these and other areas. There has been the light of vaccine development, the light of people speaking out, the light of public awareness. Yet, more light is required.
As Christians who are being transformed by the light of Christ and empowered by his resurrection, we too are called to be lights into this darkness. We are called to share in the mission of the risen Jesus. The death and resurrection of Jesus is the reason we know that there is an answer to the darkness and brokenness of this world. There is hope and salvation. There is a light that cannot be overcome.
May you this Easter know the transforming power of the Risen Jesus, be filled with his light and so be a light to others to the glory of God our Father.
With Easter blessings,
The Most Reverend Geoffrey Smith
Primate Anglican Church of Australia
