Easter: Time to remember Jesus
The season of Easter is here again. During the period, Christians remember the suffering, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. JAMES CHIMPWEYA asked Reverend Baxton Maulidi of Saint Paul’s CCAP Church in Blantyre to explain the significance of Easter.
What is the correct way of handling Easter? Should people commemorate, observe or celebrate the event?
People commemorate, observe and celebrate Easter. They should commemorate the resurrection and suffering of Jesus Christ and celebrate their liberation from the satanic bondage and salvation that Jesus brought. Easter commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is the most important Christian festival. People should hold crusades, visit and strengthen the weak in spirit, cheer and share with the less privileged in prisons, hospitals and orphanages, among many other places.
Do you we have fixed dates for Easter?
The date for Easter changes every year. Of course not all Easter customs are Christian. Some, such as the Easter Bunny, are pagan in origin.
Tell us a little more about Easter.
Jesus knew why he came into the world and what he came for was to die for sinners. He accomplished his mission. We should celebrate this achievement. The tomb where he was buried was guarded and an enormous stone was put over the entrance so that no-one could steal his body. On the following Sunday, some women visited the grave and found that the stone had been moved and the tomb was empty. Jesus himself was seen that day, and for days afterwards by many people. His followers realised that God had raised Jesus from the dead.
Now as a church, what programmes have you lined up for Easter?
As Saint Paul’s Church, we have a crusade to celebrate the suffering, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ from Good Friday to Easter Sunday. We have invited various preachers and gospel music groups to spice up the event. This is the time we need to rededicate our lives to Christ because he suffered for our salvation.
