Yesterday
evening many watched the TV coverage of the fire at Notre Damme Cathedral in Paris
with a mixture of horror and distress.
For some it
was because it looked as if an iconic historical building, one of the national
treasures of France, was about to be completely destroyed. There were real fears the whole building
would collapse in on itself.
For those of
us who are Christians, well, we had the same fears as everybody; but also the
pain of seeing a building built for the glory of God and dedicated to him, used
for centuries of Christian worship, being burnt up before our eyes. We felt too the pain of our sisters and
brothers in Christ who regularly worship in that place, clergy planning their
Holy Week and Easter Services, those who would have joined them there in
worship.
This morning
there was hope……
We are told
that the structure is largely intact and the French President has said Notre
Damme will be rebuilt, like a phoenix rising from the ashes.
One
billionaire has already pledged 100 million Euros to help fund the rebuilding.
And what I
think will become an iconic picture, the empty cross shining in the darkness of
the burnt-out cathedral, a symbol of hope amidst the heart-breaking
destruction.
An empty
cross. A poignant reminder of the Easter
message that from death and destruction God can bring new life and resurrection,
for people and for his church.
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