Every year for two very different reasons, I find that purple is a magical colour for me during Term 1. Firstly, it is around this time that my beloved Fremantle Dockers have me filled with hope that this could be the year to break their premiership drought. While this feeling normally subsides at some point during the season (this year way earlier than normal), my sense of faith and hope in my football team is a warm and wonderful experience.
But bigger than this, now is the season for the colour purple in my Parish and in our College Chapel. Purple symbolises our Lenten journey and the story of the death and resurrection of Christ. Purple represents our commitment to living a life of faith, hope and love, and to follow the example of Jesus in our daily lives. In John 11:25-26, Jesus says,
“I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, he shall live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.”
This beautiful statement reminds us that through our faith in Jesus, we have the promise of eternal life, and this is because of his sacrifice for us. This is the true meaning of Easter, and this is why the colour purple inspires me during the Lenten period. While the chocolate and long weekend help us celebrate with our family and friends, it is important to remember that Easter is about love, compassion and kindness that we can show to others, just as Jesus did.
As we prepare to go off on our Term One holiday break, can I thank all our families for your support from the start of this year. I hope you and your family have a peaceful and joyous break, and may the spirit of Easter fill your hearts with love, joy and strength as we seek to live our lives inspired by faith and service.