If you could embark on an adventure to any destination in the world, unrestricted by the constraints of budget, where would your heart lead you? Picture this: airfare, accommodations, and spending money are all taken care of! The possibilities truly are endless.

 

Take a moment to consider this incredible opportunity. Would you prefer to escape the lingering chill of winter and bask in a tropical paradise? Perhaps you would reunite with family and create unforgettable memories together. Imagine exploring the majestic pyramids, marvelling at the Eiffel Tower, or experiencing the magic of Disney with Mickey Mouse himself. Or maybe you'd choose a romantic getaway to the timeless beauty of Venice or Rome? The options are indeed plentiful!

 

Now, let's take this dream to another level. What if I told you I’ve discovered a way to travel back in time? Just think about it: where would you go, and whom would you want to meet? Would you join Neil Armstrong on his historic moon landing? Stand alongside Columbus as he sets sail for new worlds? Or perhaps you would prefer to be Leonardo da Vinci's brush cleaner, witness the creative genius of the Renaissance first-hand? Imagine revisiting a time when the world was rich with untamed forests and oceans alive with vibrant ecosystems—a period when "pollution" was merely a figment of the imagination. Or would you long for a simpler era, one that feels less complicated than today’s fast-paced life?

 

Now, let's delve into the Biblical past. If you could witness some significant events from that time, which would you choose? Imagine having a front-row seat to Creation itself, as the Master Painter forms the cosmos and every living creature. Or perhaps you’d like to experience the awe of the parting of the Red Sea, or be present at the fall of Jericho, ready to raise your own trumpet in praise.

 

I had the profound honour of co-leading two Holy Land pilgrimage groups, in 2020 and 2022. Each journey was a remarkable opportunity to preach and celebrate Holy Communion at sacred sites like the Garden of Gethsemane and the Sermon on the Mount. These experiences were not only spiritually enriching but also deeply meaningful, allowing us to connect with the rich tapestry of history while reflecting on its significance in our faith. Together, we fostered a sense of community and deepened our spiritual journeys against the stunning backdrops of the Holy Land.

 

As you reflect on the moments of Jesus’ life, consider this: Would you want to be part of the crowd during the Sermon on the Mount, hearing His words resonate in your heart? Would you join in the miracle of feeding the 5,000? Witnessing Him walking on water or raising Lazarus from the dead would undoubtedly deepen your faith.

 

Can you imagine being there with Mary, Peter, and John at the empty tomb, witnessing the resurrected Lord for the first time? The moment when Thomas declared, "My Lord and my God!" after touching Jesus is a memory that would be forever etched in your soul.

 

However, how many of us would dare to travel back to the cross, witnessing the birth of complete forgiveness? It would be heart-wrenching yet a transformative opportunity for any follower of Christ. To see love in action as Jesus proclaimed, "Father, forgive them," knowing those words were spoken for each of us.

 

Fortunately, we don’t have to imagine these last two events; we can encounter their profound significance every day! Without regularly reflecting on the cross and the empty tomb, life can become chaotic and unfulfilling. The cross serves as a powerful reminder of forgiveness—past, present, and future. In times of doubt, looking to the cross reassures me of His unwavering and proven love.

 

The empty tomb holds equal importance, reminding us that life is filled with eternal victories. Sometimes, that sense of triumph may feel shrouded in pain or sorrow, much like the experience of that first Easter. Yet, knowing that the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work within us (Ephesians 1:18-20) empowers us to claim our victories. Life’s struggles may fluctuate, but visiting the tomb reinforces my belief that I am, and always will be, victorious in Christ.

 

So let’s seize the opportunity to visit the cross and the empty tomb together. God has graciously covered the cost of our journey! Take this chance, and as an added bonus, you’ll find yourself cruising toward eternity. Now, that’s a trip worth taking!

 

Wishing you a meaningful Lenten season and a joyous Easter!

 

In Christ, 

Revd. David Jebb 

Spring 2025