The Easter Garden at St. Jude's Parish Church April 2009
Hope and New life in the Resurrection
Many times in the bible the word hope is used. In this time of recession and very little hope we need to hear and believe the Good News of Hope and new life through the Resurrection of Jesus. "He has come to give us new life and hope." Before death and resurrection there was the suffering and crucifixation in which Jesus suffered and died for us all. He did this in order that we would have new life and hope. For us to have this hope and belief in the resurrection we must first die to ourselves. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

Are we people of Hope in our family and community? Do our words and actions bring sadness or joy, life or death to those we meet. How can we bring this message of hope and new life to those in doubt and despair. Who are the people who have brought us from darkness to light?

A Crown of prickly thorns: was made at a moments notice from thorny bushes nearby to crown Jesus and humiliate Him in front of his followers.

A cup: "Father", Jesus said "if you are willing take this cup away from Me". Of course we know the Cup was merely a methopher for the horrendous suffering He was about to endure. We can also ask for our burdens to be taken from us.

Thirty Pieces of Silver: Judas is alledged to have betrayed Jesus in return for money. Are there times in our lives when we have betrayed people?

A Sandal: as Jesus was dragged roughly away He may have lost his sandal and a Handkerchief spotted with blood "and His sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood"

A sponge on a reed: as He suffered on the Cross the Roman Soldiers held up a sponge with a pain killing mixture of herbs and vinegar but Jesus refused to take it. When are the times we have held out a helping hand to other people. Think of all the people who have helped us along our way.

Brightly coloured flowers: around the tomb a symbol of joy that Christ has Risen from the Dead. In the same way today we bring flowers to a funeral as we believe our loved ones who have died have now reached the Joy of Eternal Life.

Daffodils and Crocuses: each year when we see the little flowers blooming our heart gets excited because spring is coming and we become alive even in the darkest days, little birds still fly and sing.

Red Daisies: under the cross represent "His sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood"

Boxthorn Plant: is believed to have been the hedge from which the Crown of Thorns was made.

Peace Lilly: "Peace I leave you, my peace I give you" a symbol of the peace that comes through the death and resurrection of Jesus.