Jesus said, “So, you believe because you’ve seen with your own eyes. Even better blessings are in store for those who believe without seeing”. Jesus provided far more God-revealing signs than are written down in this book. These are written down so you will believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God. (John 20: 29 – 31)

“Let’s party!” Jamal had heard the call many times and he had always responded with great gusto. He had invested himself wholeheartedly into his first semester of university away from home and had gotten straight A’s in all the subjects of his new-found social freedom: staying out late, getting drunk, skipping classes, and carousing with the uni party crowd.

But his academic grades told the other side of the story. He was horrified by the low marks and failures he earned. He realised how much his mum had sacrificed to send him to university and provide for him, while he got the education he needed to make something out of life. He resolved to turn over a new leaf.

So when the call to party came one again, Jamal turned it down. He told his friends he had to study, but his friends couldn’t believe it. “But you’re the captain of the party boat, man!” they cried. They even tried to drag him out of his room. But he resisted, steadfast. “Look, you guys: I’m trying to be a good student. I owe it to the people who are counting on me. You’re supposed to be my friends. Now help me out and let me try”. His friends were amazed but had to admit he was right.

Easter means that new life can come in unexpected ways. It’s hard to believe that the dead can rise. But when the evidence shows up right before your eyes, then it’s hard to keep on doubting.