Humans can relate to suffering. Humans endure a great deal – the loss of family or friends; being bullied or disrespected; abuse of whatever kind; the seemingly endless labyrinths of addiction or mental health issues. Thus, Good Friday services strike a deep chord. But how are we freed from this suffering?
God’s answer, indeed the only answer that makes sense, is love. Love does not make problems magically disappear but is the most powerful force for transformation. Love builds community. Love shares the burden. Love cures hurts and helps make us whole. Love helps to shine a light in the darkness. As Martin Luther King Jr said: ‘Hate cannot drive out hate. Only love can do that’.
As we celebrate Easter, may we also celebrate the ways that love binds us together, frees us from difficulties and transforms our lives – remembering that God is love.
livedgospel 