Celebrating Easter amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic opens the door for everyone to look at themselves and their relationship with God.

That is the view of the Methodist Church President, Reverend Faulalo Leti, in an interview with the Samoa Observer.

He said people might think the onset of the COVID-19 could be a punishment from God but it is far from it as God is loving.

“What important messages were brought about by this virus on Easter and Good Friday? Others may think the coronavirus is God’s punishment to the world and our sins, but keep in mind, God is a loving God and not insulting,” he said.

“He feels our pain, our pleas and our sufferings, he strengthens us in times of need, until we learn about faith to realise the wonderfulness of his love in various ways. The Easter or the resurrection of Jesus Christ is a fortune from the grave. The dark and petrifying grave that has brought about light and life through the revival of our saviour, and it’s our hope for big blessings he has prepared for us.”

Reverend Faulalo said he believes fortunes can change for the better from the effects of the deadly coronavirus if we maintain our faith.

“That is also a fortune or a win can be brought about from this deadly disease, the Coronavirus if we uphold our faith in the spirit of Easter.”

Last Friday, Samoa and Christian believers around the world marked the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his suffering, added Reverend Faulalo, but everyone will witness the greatness of God on Easter Sunday.

According to the Reverend Faulalo, there is no greater strength in the rock which blocked the grave and the soldiers, when the angel said “He is not here, for He is risen, as He said” (Mathew 28:6).”

In times of troubles, he said all the fright, worries and uncertainties – despite no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Samoa – are nothing if Samoa puts their faith in the Lord.

“The plea of Jesus on the cross, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? I believe this is also our plea together with the whole world due to the hardships from this pandemic that has claimed a lot of innocent lives,” he added. 

‘But our only concern and need right now is to go back to normality.”

With Samoa being in the second month of a state of emergency (S.O.E.) lockdown, Reverend Faulalo asked of its meaning to individuals.

He these times are important for everyone to look at themselves and their relationships with God.

“May you look into yourselves, if this is not the right time to rebuild your relationships with God if you’ve forbidden your life from God and your families. Open your door to God in the days and nights, as there have been no church services like we’re used to.

“Churches, Government and Samoa, this is the answer to our hardships and sufferings, accept Jesus Christ who was crucified and have died for you, risen for you so you can feel the spirit of the Easter and reapers of blessings for those who love Him.”

And with the region caught up reporting increasing cases of COVID-19 as well as feeling the brunt of tropical cyclone in recent days which continues to impact the lives of innocent people, Reverend Faulalo said he hopes life’s challenges compels everyone to love their spouses, their children and their families, neighbours, churches, government and country. 

“Maintain your faith in the man of Easter who can strengthen and guide us through hardships of life. Whatever you do now, may you give praises and glory to God and Jesus Christ. Happy Easter Samoa.”