Here in the UK, summer is rapidly approaching. The crocus and daffodils are bursting into flower and the parks and gardens are being transformed after the dead of winter.

Easter is a very beautiful time of the year and the new growth of the plants and trees helps us to look forward to the long hot summer days which lie ahead.

For Christians, of course, the new life surrounding Easter is even more significant. We remember the wonderful events in Jerusalem 2000 years ago. Outside the walls of this ancient city, on a rough piece of wood, our Saviour, Jesus Christ, suffered and died. He was laid to rest in a cold, stone tomb and a large egg shaped stone was rolled over the doorway to seal the tomb forever.

Why should Christians rejoice at this awful event in mankind's history?

If that was the whole story and the end of the story of Jesus' life on earth there would be nothing to be happy about.

But that was not the end!

On the third day He rose from the dead.

JESUS IS ALIVE!

What is it that makes Christians so sure that this wonderful news is true?

Many Christians know the wonderful presence of the living Lord Jesus in their lives today.

A presence that can only come from a living Saviour, risen from the tomb.

As you enjoy your Easter eggs this year remember the egg shaped stone which was rolled away from the tomb on that glorious resurrection morning.

Along with the celebration of new life in the gardens and parks, rejoice also in the new life which Jesus Christ can bring to all who put their trust in Him.