THE MEANING OF EASTER FOR CHRISTIANS: LOVE AND SACRIFICE AS A MANIFESTATION OF FAITH

Medan, (DBK)— Christians are always reminded of the meaning and significance of the resurrection and sacrifice as manifestations of God's love for humanity and humanity's love for God, especially during Easter. Director General of Christian Community Guidance Jeane Marie Tulung stated in an online speech via Zoom during the Easter Celebration of the Christian Fellowship of North Sumatra on Saturday, May 11, 1924, that the message is so strong, ingrained, and embedded in the hearts of us Christians that it should not only be contemplated but also reflected in our actions as faithful people. The Director General mentioned in her speech that, in accordance with this year's PGI Easter theme, "Living as Instruments of His Righteousness," referring to Romans 6:13, the Apostle Paul emphasised that the death and resurrection of Christ have saved humanity from the body of sin, which represents the whole of human nature inclined to sin. However, believers have been freed from the power of sin through their faith. In this context, the Easter celebration for Christians holds meaning to give people hope and strength to rise from danger and fear. It gives us hope and optimism to face the days ahead with the risen Christ. "The values of Easter invite us to strengthen the spirit of appreciation, foster care, and spread love among others. This symbol of love will resonate with all religious communities, including fellow Christians. As part of the reflection and actualization of Easter values in North Sumatra, today's Easter Celebration in Medan, North Sumatra, as a 'Christian Enclave,' should be a meeting point to strengthen joint synergy through active participation in building a life of peace amid pluralism," said the Director General.

Concluding her speech, the Director General said that Easter reflection is the love of Jesus Christ for everyone who comes to Him. We are reminded that Jesus Christ does not distinguish between tribes, races, or ethnic groups. Therefore, the essence and values of Easter are very broad and align with the goals of religious moderation to foster community togetherness. Furthermore, the spirit of Easter always reminds us to renew ourselves, be grateful, and become pioneers of truth in our daily lives through our actions. To practice our faith in God, we must continue to act according to God's path and favour, be people who act and think rightly, and build relationships with others. We must also live according to Christian values and ethics. The Director General concluded, "Let us make this Easter celebration a turning point for us to be more diligent in worship, live with integrity, and emulate Christ Himself." The Easter Celebration of the Christian Fellowship of North Sumatra was attended by all participants, including Sorni Paskah Daeli, M.Si, Deputy II of the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture of the Republic of Indonesia; Lukas, S.Th., M.M., Chairman of the Easter PUSU North Sumatra Committee; and Jimmy Panjaitan, S.T., M.M., President Director of BPODT.