A small group of people stood at a distance and looked on in horror. Their friend was being nailed to a piece of wood and would soon bleed to death suspended between heaven and earth. How could this have happened to one to whom crowds had flocked for healing and inspiration? How could they understand that this event would change the course of human history?

Three days later there would be a new understanding. People would begin to talk in terms of a new creation; they would become witnesses of a resurrection and a resurgence of a 'living hope'.

This is how Jesus Christ made his impact on men and women. They began to tell stories about him and to recount stories he had told them. More importantly, they began to experience God through all of this and shared with one another at such a level that they began to believe they, who were 'mere nothings' could change the world.

Jesus has metaphorically 'opened the gate of heaven' to all those who have had their eyes and ears opened to the good news of God's love. That loving acceptance is made visible in his life and teaching and is still experienced by those who come to him for rest and restoration.