Les Misérables Film Offers Good Example of Easter Message

The adaptations of Victor Hugo's novel, Les Misérablescontain one of the best portrayals of the Easter story in action, says the Presbyterian Church.

'In Les Misérables, the character Jean Valjean, speaking of the bishop's kindness says, '˜He gave me hope when hope was gone, he gave me strength to carry on'. That is the Easter message - the story of the power of forgiveness and of hope,' says the Right Rev Ray Coster, Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand.

'Valjean understands and appreciates the mercy, forgiveness and new hope that has been given to him '“ at a huge price '“ and goes on to serve, sacrifice and save others throughout his life; even forgiving and trying to set free his archenemy Javert.'

Yet this Easter message is lost on many in New Zealand, for whom, Ray says, Easter is more about a holiday from work than anything else.

'So much of our effort, time and energy go into work. It is where we strive to find purpose, meaning and even hope. Yet, we still long for a holiday from work whenever possible. Work never seems to satisfy the deepest need within us.'

As the national debate on the growing gap between the rich and the poor, and the Mondayising of certain holidays continues, Ray says we must not lose sight of the spiritual dimension that brings a true sense of fulfilment.

'Satisfaction comes, as Valjean learnt, through doing something beneficial for both ourselves and others. That's the Easter message for Christian people. Easter means hope. The resurrection is all about a new beginning and fresh opportunity. But someone else pays a huge price for this '“ Jesus.'

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The Presbyterian Church is the third largest denomination in Aotearoa New Zealand, with more than 400,000 people identifying as Presbyterian in the 2001 Census, and 30,000 regular church attenders.

The Moderator is the elected leader of the Presbyterian Church of Aotearoa New Zealand, elected every two years.

ENDS

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