The Significance of Death and Resurrection of Christ

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

In observance of the Lenten season, Kapehan sa Aklan on April 11 had the theme, "The Significance of Death and Resurrection of Christ". PAPI Pres. Juan P. Dayang greeted the guests led by Fr. Am Mijares, ACC, Dean Manolita Acevedo, Atty. Olin Gonzales, Atty. Plaridel Morania, and Kalibo SB member Mark Quimpo among others. Atmosphere was subdued and contemplative as speakers delved on traditional Christian beliefs, tradition and virtues. The majority present including former Cong. Allen S. Quimpo spoke from laymen’s point of view though they touched on fundamental faith and doctrine. Detached from the prevailing view herewith is my opinion on the theme.

The supreme sacrifice of Jesus, the God-Man paved the way for fallen men to regain glory and honor in the kingdom of God. Our first parents Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit and so sin dominated our existence (Rom. 5:12). Penalty for sin is death and eternal banishment from his presence. But God loves sinners and only hates sin. Out if His agape love, He sent His only begotten Son to the world that whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life. (John 3:16).

Jesus, the man of sorrows fulfilled all righteousness so that this gift of eternal life could be given to us by grace. John the Baptist testified of Him, "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. (John 1:29)
Wordly man including Jesus’ disciples could not comprehend why the messiah would suffer and die. Peter and John have strong objections vowing to die with Him if needed. But the Pharisees, Sadducees and members of the Jewish Sanhedrin wanted Jesus to be put to death. Later, they found a man ready to betray his master and his name – Judas Iscariot.

The suffering and death of Christ were only a manifestation of man’s depravity and hopelessness. Nevertheless, shedding of blood is necessary for the remission of sins. Indeed, He was wounded for our transgression and with His stripes we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5) Paul corroborated the prophet by saying, "For our sake He made Him to be sin so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Cor 5:21)

Thus, it is written that Christ should suffer and on the third day risen from the dead. (Luke 24:46). Happy Easter!

Fr. Mijares challenged the media to have a change of heart and mind as we carry our cross daily in triumph over our weaknesses. We are God’s messengers regardless of who we are and what we are. Definitely, God can transform us from our heart of stone into bread that satisfies. This is dependent upon one condition: "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness and all these things shall be yours as well." (Mt. 6:33)

Dean Acevedo said that she found solace and contentment after clinging to the Lord in times of crisis. Death of her husband in the 1990’s and the ensuing court litigations might have wearied her to the bone but thanks be to God she emerged victorious over the ordeal.

Meanwhile, Brgy. Capt. Mary Jane A. Rebaldo echoed the same predicament over her trials in life. Although sufferings and misfortunes afflicted her family (she was widowed much earlier than Dean Acevedo, followed by election protest against her son Mayor Rebaldo) she believes blessings far outnumber sufferings. She maintains that faith in God is the secret of her enduring strength to raise and nurture six children and gave them college education.

The message of Atty. Gonzales is centered on forgiveness of sins as mentioned in the Lord’s prayer. Necessarily, it must also include reparation for past misdeeds whether in the illicit acquisition of wealth or dispensation of justice. This calls to mind Zaccheus, a publican and tax collector who surrendered himself to the Lord and all his earthly possessions. /MP