Jesus was a visionary who activated a paradigm shift for humankind. The metaphor of resurrection describes such transformational change. It is the phoenix emerging from the ashes of the old to begin anew, and is always preceded by the breakdown of structures, comfort zones, and old ways of doing and being. This level of change causes the crucifixion experience for it is never without pain and struggle. It is a death of the old, and death always brings grief, just as new birth brings joy. Resistance and denial are part of the process because we tend to fear the unknown.
In this new season, let us pause and remember that it is time for a Spring cleaning. We can ask ourselves, “What old ideas, habits, and beliefs do I need to give up? What am I willing to release so that I can arise from the ashes of the past into a new life?”
The amazing part of such willingness is that the smallest change can make all the difference. The metamorphosis from one world view to another in a paradigm shift rarely occurs in only one area of a life or a culture. There is always a great ripple effect that changes everything. When we make a simple personal change, our entire life can shift, and when the greater collective makes such a change, the world can be altered.
Jesus was willing to speak out against the status quo in the life of his community, and like throwing a pebble into still water, the wave of change that he started continues to this day. He was, and still is, the great teacher of the mystery of resurrection.
Resurrection is a principle that makes all overcoming possible. It is a quality of life that allows us to rise again and again. We see it in nature and in our own life stories, as one season passes, and a new one begins. Thank you, Mother-Father God, for the power of new life!
Love & blessings,
Rev. Kathy