Bob Kiteley
Rector of Ashtead
Jesus said: "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?" John 11:25-26 NIV
Rector of Ashtead
In the Middle Ages there was much speculation over the possibility of a sea route to India. The great subcontinent was rich in spices and perfumes, but was it possible to reach them via the southern tip of Africa? Nobody knew, though plenty had tried. Every attempt had failed as men sought to round the Cape. The treacherous headland became known as the Cape of Storms, the scene of many wrecks.
However, one brave man determined to try again. Round the Cape of Storms he went and on to the East. In Lisbon harbour there is still a monument to him today, with the Latin words - "Plus Ultra" - 'more beyond!' Ever since Vasco da Gama sailed in triumph into Lisbon harbour it has been impossible to doubt that a way to the East exists round the tip of Africa.
The very name of that perilous Cape was changed. No longer Cape of Storms, it became the Cape of Good Hope.
For the Christian believer death is like that. Once death was a mystery, a cause of great speculation, littered with wrecks. But one man has rounded the Cape successfully and returned. Now we know that there is "Plus Ultra" - 'more beyond!' The way has been opened up to a new and rich land which he has shown exists. And because he has made the journey himself, he is uniquely able to act as pilot to others.
Who is he? His name is Jesus. And Christian hope in life after death is based on the solid foundation of his resurrection. Christ's resurrection has turned the Cape of Storms into the Cape of Good Hope for those who believe.
Blessings at Easter,
Bob Kiteley (Rector)
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