In 1913, having survived severe trials in his young life, including the loss of both his parents, George Bennard penned the words; “To the ‘Old Rugged Cross’ I will ever be true; it’s shame and reproach gladly bear; then He’ll call me some day to my home far away, where His glory forever I’ll share.”
To this day, these words remain one of the most popular expressed testimonies of faith which has been reproduced in a well known Easter hymn; “The Old Rugged Cross”.
As a God fearing people, we gather this evening with mustard seed faith, to position this nation, our families, friends and loved ones at the foot of that “Old Rugged Cross” for renewed direction and protection. Accepting that if we humble ourselves and pray our God will hear our cry and heal our land and bless our people.
Ladies and Gentlemen, we must commend the Dominica Association of Evangelical Churches for embracing its role in the area of national unity and spiritual revival. The staging of this event during Holy Week is no coincidence. It spurs us to reflect on Calvary and to question whether the life we live reflects our gratitude for this ultimate sacrifice.
Amidst tonight’s activities, I implore you to narrow your focus on the “Old Rugged Cross”; on the reflection of the crucifixion and burial and the celebration of the resurrection; on the true meaning of Easter.
Ladies and Gentlemen, for centuries the great minds of Christianity have produced volumes of history in an attempt to explain the celebration of Easter and its significance to mankind.
Some historians and scientists still grapple with the contents of the gospel books which give the most convincing and chronological records of Jesus’ brutal crucifixion, His burial and resurrection, recorded over 2000 years ago.
As children we were taught the Easter story from as early as we could grasp. The story of Easter connotes the fulfillment of scripture. When Jesus rose from the dead, it was the sign that our sins were forgiven. We were washed with the blood. That barrier of sin which once existed between God and we His children was broken and our relationship with God was restored.
In His teachings on earth before His death, Jesus promised eternal life to those of us who would diligently seek Him. The apostle Paul wrote in Galatians chapter 2 verse 20; “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Had there not been a resurrection the assurance of eternal life would bear no significance. The fact that Jesus rose from the dead, is a true demonstration that He conquered sin and death. It is this message of Christ the crucified that enables us to fully enjoy all the blessings that our heavenly father bestows, without guilt and shame.
Sadly, despite His glorious resurrection which has given Christians the assurance of salvation, there are still contradicting voices across the globe all in the name of Christianity. Notwithstanding the teachings of the good book, there are some who see the “Old Rugged Cross” as a disruptive and embarrassing obstacle.
Others claiming to be children of God have accepted rules forbidding biblical teachings and prayers at schools. There are even those who are focused on adopting religious bahaviour rather than a Christ-like nature.
The Apostle Paul had predicted these developments among our generation. He told the church of Corinth in the New Testament. “…the message of the Cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:18.
Thankfully, for us in Dominica, we can testify this Easter that salvation has come to our house and we can celebrate God’s reconciliation with us through His son, Jesus Christ. It is this reconciliation that leads us boldly to the throne of grace to receive mercy and peace.
Similarly, the celebration of Easter signifies that Jesus is alive today. And so tonight, whether or not scientists continue their discoveries or historians refuse to accept biblical facts, Dominicans can say with full confidence that we serve a living Saviour, who has promised that He will come again and receive us unto Him. In all of life’s circumstances we know that we can look to the hills from whence cometh our help.
Brothers and sisters, if you remember one thing that I have said to you this evening, let it be that salvation can be found only in Jesus Christ. Scripture teaches that there is no other name by which we can be saved, but the name Christ Jesus. I implore you to open your heart to the God who saves tonight, and taste and see that he is good.
May the Lord bless each one gathered here this evening and those listening via the airwaves.
May God Bless Dominica.
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