New life in Christ – Andy Prescott
‘Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: the old has gone, the new is here!’
— 2 Corinthians 5:17
I can remember the joy of Easter as a young child—running through my local park, searching eagerly for hidden eggs. The thrill of discovering something unexpected, the delight of finding what was once concealed, mirrors a much deeper truth found in the message of Easter.
During the 13th century, Christians were forbidden from eating eggs during Holy Week. This practice of fasting served as a reminder of Christ’s suffering and sacrifice in the days leading up to His resurrection. However, when Easter Sunday arrived, eggs—both real and, much later, chocolate—became symbols of celebration and new life. What had been set aside was now restored, reflecting the joy of Christ’s victory over death.
This year, a convergence has occurred: the Christian observance of Lent and the Islamic holy month of Ramadan have overlapped. Both traditions involve periods of fasting, prayer and reflection, guiding believers towards spiritual renewal and a deeper connection with God. This overlap offers a profound opportunity for mutual understanding and shared contemplation on themes of sacrifice and renewal.
In many of the prisons we serve, we have the privilege of working in multi-faith chaplaincies alongside dedicated Imams, Rabbis and other faith leaders who are hugely supportive of Prison Fellowship and our mission. Their collaboration is a powerful reminder that, despite differences in faith, we share a common commitment to supporting people in prison, offering hope, and working for transformation.
Yet, the Bible reminds us that true fasting is not merely about abstaining from food but about transformation, justice and freedom. The prophet Isaiah declares:
‘Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood? Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. Then you will call, and the Lord will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I.’
— Isaiah 58:6-9
For those we serve through Prison Fellowship, life can often feel like a confined space, a season of darkness where hope seems elusive. Yet, Easter reminds us that even in the most desperate of circumstances, Jesus offers new life. Just as we once searched for eggs as children, so too does God seek out the lost, calling each of us to Himself.
The Easter story is one of redemption. Jesus, the sinless Son of God, willingly suffered and died on the cross, taking upon Himself the punishment for our sins. But death could not hold Him. On the third day, He rose again, defeating sin and death forever. His resurrection is not just a historical event but a promise—a promise of new life for all who trust in Him.
For those in prison, Easter may feel bittersweet. It is a time that speaks of freedom, yet physical freedom remains out of reach. However, Jesus offers a greater liberation—the freedom of the soul. Paul, who wrote much of the New Testament from prison, understood this well. He declared, ‘It is for freedom that Christ has set us free’ (Galatians 5:1). Even in chains, he knew the power of God’s grace.
At Prison Fellowship, we witness this transforming power daily. People who once felt beyond redemption discover that Jesus has not forgotten them. They realise that, just as the stone was rolled away from the tomb, the weight of their past can be lifted through God’s mercy.
Just as the joy of an Easter egg hunt lies in the moment of discovery, so too is there rejoicing in heaven when even one lost soul turns to Christ (Luke 15:7). No one is too far gone, too broken, or too lost for Jesus to redeem. His resurrection is proof that death does not have the final word, that darkness can be overcome and that new beginnings are possible.
This Easter, as we celebrate Christ’s victory, let us also acknowledge the shared journeys of faith occurring around us. May we pray for those who are searching—for hope, for forgiveness, for a fresh start. May they come to know the freedom that only Jesus can bring, and may we, as His people, live out the true fasting God desires—bringing justice, love and compassion to those in need.
Let us hold fast to the promise:
‘He is not here; He has risen, just as He said’
-Matthew 28:6
In Christ, new life is always possible.
Andy Prescott is Prison Fellowship’s Head of Fundraising and Communications.
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