Opinion: Lessons of Easter By – SAM KARGBO

Either as a creed or allegory, Easter has many lessons for mankind. Firstly, man depends on law and order for his peace and comfort. The breach of the law pits the violator against the authority that superintends over him. Secondly, outlaws require rehumanization to reconcile them with the state. Thirdly, mediators not only talk to both parties but are ready to give up their life to reconcile warring parties. Love is not so much about sharing affections as it is about readiness to make the absolute sacrifice for the loved object. Fourthly, but for sin, man can conquer death. Our limitation results from wantonness, indiscipline, lack of spirituality, and of moderation. Christians should not only conquer all trials, tribulations or entrapments but also be able to conquer death. Fifthly, blaming our limitations on others signifies lack of spirituality. Jesus lived under occupation. Besides the oppressive colonial legal regime in which he lived, he was antagonized by the elite of his time, betrayed by his people, falsely accused, tried by a kangaroo court and crucified. He bore all the pains in good stride, praying God to forgive his persecutors. He transcended his persecutors’ meanness, interceding on their behalf, asking God to forgive them. That is why he has outlasted the evil empire that crucified him. Sixthly, love is a potent tool with which to fight the enemy. Jesus did not conquer his adversaries with any force of armies and physical weapons, but by love. Love planted in the heart of individuals is more persuasive – more effective – than weapons of war. If love abides in the heart of leaders and the people throughout the world, there will be no war, terrorism or threat to our civilization. The world is sliding into the abyss because there is no love to conquer the evil in men’s heart. Seventhly, to be a saviour or hero you must be ready to sacrifice yourself for the people.

Easter is therefore not the time to revel in merriment or debauchery. Let Easter be a symbol of the finest aims and aspirations of the human heart. Let it typify in you the duty to comfort your sorrowing neighbour. Easter shows that there is no kindness, no generosity, no love or respect for others that does not involve self-denial. Jesus died for humanity to demonstrate love and emphasize that he who would be a Saviour must come upon a cross.