Terry Young (Longman, Liberal National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

This weekend is Easter. Of course, way too much chocolate will be consumed, camping trips will probably be rained out in Queensland and the kids will be excited about the Easter bunny, which is all a bit of fun. However, for those of the Christian faith, I would say that this is the most important event on the calendar. Without the death and resurrection of Jesus, there is no Christian faith. So many Christians that I speak to love the fact that, unlike in so many other religions, the God in the Bible actually got off the throne and came and helped humanity in the form of Jesus Christ. Rather than throwing orders and condemnation at the very people he created for being imperfect, he came to rescue humanity, who really didn't deserve it. The whole gospel message, contrary to popular belief, is one of love, not of judgement. It's a message of hope, not fear. In these tumultuous times, hope is definitely what people need.

If you don't go along to a church regularly or at all or if you are feeling despondent, anxious or run out of hope with what we are currently experiencing globally, locally and as a nation, I encourage you to visit a church this Easter and hear for yourself the message of hope in these very challenging times. What have you got to lose? There is a list of Easter services in the Longman community. If you can't afford to get there, I'm sure if you call one of the churches they'd find a way to get you there. Happy Easter, everyone!