As I write this, in the approach to Easter, the newspapers and TV news seem to be full of two stories: the deepening recession and the death and funeral of Jade Goody. Both are affecting lives across East London and Essex, and both may naturally lead us to revaluate our own circumstances set against the backdrop of the wonder of the Easter message.

In this time of financial and environmental crisis, societies the world over are going to have to discover new values and qualities of character, values which rely far less on acquiring wealth and possessions. Almost 2,000 years ago St Paul wrote, ‘I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.

I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.’ Paul’s ‘secret’ is simple: Contentedness does not come to those who are proud and selfreliant but rather to those who choose to lead a life of reliance upon God, whatever life throws at them. Paul knew all about this, as a veteran pioneer minister and missionary, he was tested and tried through all manner of challenging circumstances, yet still he would describe himself as content.

Jade’s death and funeral also focuses our attention on the real meaning of life … my prayers are for her friends and her family as they grieve for a young mother’s life cut short. But amidst the sadness there can also be celebration of a life lived to the full. Jade faced her premature death with reality and courage. She prepared well and helped others prepare well for her death and for their own.

I pray that all of you who have been touched by Jade’s life and illness may find comfort and hope in the message and hope of Easter: knowing that, in Jesus we can experience resurrection and life - fullness of life now and after our physical death. And I also pray that we all, as individuals, as a church, and as a nation, will discover afresh the values St Paul discovered and road tested throughout his life. If you’d like to learn more about the Easter message, I’m certain you will find a warm welcome at your local church on Easter Sunday.

Whatever your circumstances, I pray that you will all have a happy Easter.

Bishop David The Rt Revd David Hawkins Bishop of Barking