DAI - Philippines

Easter confronts us with a difficult truth: real life often lies on the other side of death. Not only physical death, but the death of illusions, control, pride, and the many false forms of life we try so hard to preserve. The Christian story does not begin with resurrection. It passes through the cross.

Easter invites us not merely to admire Jesus, but to allow God to lead us through this same pattern: death that opens into life. However, this life is the opening of an entirely new reality.

Jesus's resurrection brings a new dimension of God's Spirit into the world - restoring life, people, and ultimately all of creation.

This raises an important Easter question, especially for those who lead others: does our life and leadership contribute to this renewal? Do the environments we shape – our teams, communities, and relationships – bear signs of this new life of the Spirit?

This new year, may you flourish and grow strong in the Father's love. May you grow tall alongside others, not competing with them but using your gifts to bring out their own.

"I am like an olive tree flourishing in the house of God; I trust in God's unfailing love for ever and ever." (Psalm 52:8)