Jesus chose twelve disciples and then he sent them out to do work. They were told to cure the sick, raise the dead, heal the leprous and expel demons. That is to say, the apostles were charged with changing people’s lives. Their task in other words, was to make a difference in people’s lives.

The Easter season brings joy and hope. We certainly need hope in our troubled world today. We can face anything, endure anything, as long as we know or believe it will not last for ever, and that something better will happen. For instance, people will face a long painful and dangerous operation if they believe it will make them well again. Prisoners can face a long sentence as long as they believe it will end, and that they will enjoy freedom again. We can face the rigours of a long and miserable winter because we know that spring will come again.