Opposition Leader: Jesus’ selfless sacrifice has shown us the way for a better tomorrow

As we observe the most reverend and holy occasion of Good Friday, I would like to wish our Christian Community across the nation a blessed and prayerful day as they reflect upon the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Today, as our Christian brothers and sisters clasp their hands in prayer to reflect and offer thanks to God for giving His only begotten son to save humanity, let us all as a national community reflect on the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, the sacrifice of his own life for the salvation of our world.

On the night before his crucifixion, in the Garden of the Gethsemane Jesus told God, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.”

Today we observe Good Friday because Jesus put the will of God above his own fears. He placed the salvation of humanity beyond his own anguish and most of all he selflessly endured the worst pain, and humiliation, ultimately dying on a cross so that humanity could be redeemed.

The selfless sacrifice of Jesus is one which every citizen can be inspired by because it has shown the way to a better tomorrow.

It is only when we put the love and will of God above our own ambitions, or when we are willing to sacrifice for the good of others that we can truly and positively impact our world.

Good Friday has always inspired me as an individual because it touches on the core of our humanity. Good Friday for me represents a day we reflect on how God continues to sacrifice for us his children and thus we are called to sacrifice to undertake and reflect his will.

Today, with a nation facing so many economic and social burdens and hardships that can only become worse, we are called as a nation to follow the example of Jesus.

On the night before his crucifixion, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples and explained to them:

“I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” (John 13:15-17)

Such demonstrations of unconditional love, humility and sacrifice recur throughout the Paschal Triduum observances. These are not only examples for citizens to emulate, but for national decision-makers as well. Indeed, such values have inspired my own personal leadership creed to “Serve the people, serve the people, serve the people”.

This Good Friday let us all commit to battle the many social ills by following and appreciating the selfless sacrifice of Jesus on the cross at Calvary.

May God bless our nation.

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, SC, MP
Leader of the Opposition