Suffering, resurrection and Christian love – day 7

The animated film Finding Nemo captured the imaginations of audiences around the world when it was released. If you have not seen it, it is worth watching!

There is a poignant moment in the film. The little Nemo was caught in a fish bowl at the dentist – he feels hopeless and dejected. He decides there is no hope for him. Then, a pelican arrives at the dentist’s window with the news that Nemo’s father is searching for him and swimming all the way to Sydney to save him! Just that tiny bit of news was enough for Nemo! Suddenly, his whole attitude changed. Once again, he was ready to fight and make plans to get away – which he managed to do!

What changed his attitude so drastically? The message that his father was looking for him and would not give up until Nemo was found. It gave him hope and a reason to live.

We read in the Bible how discouraged Jesus’ disciples were after his death. They thought that all they had fought for and that for which Jesus stood was in vain! Nothing was worth it anymore! The message of hope died with Jesus!

Then, the risen Jesus appears to them and the penny drops! He really rose from the dead as he had promised. It changed their entire outlook on life. Suddenly, they were ready to go into the world and tell everyone about Jesus’ salvation!

What had changed? They realised that Jesus’ promises were true, that he really rose from the dead and broke the bonds of death. Now, they have a reason to live. From then on, death was not the end, but a new beginning.