Dear All,
Philippians 2:5-11
5 Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus,
6 who, though he was in the form of God,
did not regard equality with God
as something to be exploited,
7 but emptied himself,
taking the form of a slave,
being born in human likeness.
And being found in human form,
8 he humbled himself
and became obedient to the point of death—
even death on a cross.
9 Therefore God also highly exalted him
and gave him the name
that is above every name,
10 so that at the name of Jesus
every knee should bend,
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue should confess
that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Dear All,
This passage from Philippians, often read on Palm Sunday, traces a wonderful arc, beginning with the incarnation and moving through to the exultation of Jesus at the end of all things. It takes us back to the readings for the first Sunday of Lent, where Jesus resisted temptation and so ‘did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited’ (v.6). It also takes us through the events of the Passion, pointing out that his death resulted from humble obedience. It highlights that his exultation and his ‘name that is above every name’ (v.9) is not a reversal of his humility and sufferings, but part of the same journey. This pattern of death and resurrection becomes foundational for Paul’s understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus (Philippians 3.10-11). As one writer puts it, ‘death and resurrection becomes a repeated pulse through Christian discipleship.’ These words remind us of the ongoing journey of transformation.
Palm Sunday marked Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem - a moment of hope that quickly gave way to betrayal and death. But this isn't just history, it’s a spiritual pattern. Our discipleship involves continually letting go of old assumptions, overinflated egos, and unjust systems —dying to what no longer gives life. On Easter Sunday, and all through this Easter Season, we are reminded that resurrection follows, and this is not just about a one-time event, but about something that happens again and again in acts of love, justice, renewed purpose. This rhythm invites reflection, especially during the seasons of Lent, Holy Week and Easter: what in our lives, our communities, and our society needs to ‘die’ so that something more life-giving can rise? It challenges us to walk with courage into uncomfortable truths, trusting that God’s spirit will meet us on the other side with hope, healing, and new beginnings. Invigorated by God’s life-giving Spirit, let us walk forward living faithfully and fully as Easter people.
Before I sign off with a prayer, may I just say, on behalf of our family, thanks very much for all the cards, good wishes and support as we have moved into our own home, all very much appreciated by us.
With much love,
An Easter Prayer
Loving God,
in this season of Easter, we celebrate the miracle of life, renewal, and hope.
May the story of Christ’s resurrection remind us that love is stronger than fear,
that justice will rise even in the face of oppression,
and that new beginnings are always possible.
Fill our hearts with compassion for all people,
guide us in the ways of peace and kindness,
and help us to be bearers of your light in the world.
In the spirit of the risen Christ, who welcomes all, Amen.