For Christians, Easter marks the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, believed to be the moment God forgave humanity’s sins and offered new life.
Many believers celebrate resurrection while still living in the tomb.
Easter is perceived as a personal audit for many Christians, a moment to confront personal failings and practice forgiveness beyond church attendance.
While churches fill on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, the meaning is shifting.
According Pastor Samuel Mashikolo of Kabushi Baptist Church from Ndola, not all Christians know what Easter really is and the significance it holds , but instead they perceive it as a mere holiday.
Mashikolo said For those who do, Easter is considered a deadline for mending cut ties, confessing private shame, and deciding what gets buried or raised.
“Easter is centered on forgiveness, because it’s a reminder of the love Jesus demonstrated on the cross of Calvary to mankind,”he said.
“It commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ to accomplish salvation for the world.”
He said prayer, confession and forgiveness really matter for one to grow in spirit.
“The three should not be practiced only during the holy week but should be an individual’s way of living.” explained Pastor Mashikolo.
Meanwhile, One Accord Faith Church member Brian Chikonde, shares insights on how much he values Easter in terms of how he uses the holy week.
”I perceive Easter as a checkpoint to reflect upon my life and the forgiveness God showed by dying for me.”He said.
”A time to withdraw the grudges I hold towards myself, my friends and my family.”
And a dedicated Catholic congregant, Elijah Sakala, says each Easter forces him to reckon with grace.
“Easter really matters to me because it reminds me of the love Christ demonstrated by dying for my sins,” Sakala said.
“it’s through Christ’s resurrection that I’m reminded I can start life anew.”
“Celebrating Easter is a privilege to erase my past and focus on the future knowing I rose with Christ.”
Easter comes with blessings that lead people to reflect upon their lives and remember their Creator through baptism and communion with fellow believers.