Silent Saturday

Luke 23:56b  

On the sabbath they rested according to the commandment.


​Today we rest.  It has been a long journey for Jesus, and for those who have followed. We are tired, physically and emotionally.  From the moment Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey the pace has been grueling; we watched Jesus provoke and agitate and instigate, and frankly the pressure was intense.  He had pushed so very hard, lived out his beliefs without compromise and the rest of us got swept up and struggled to keep up. 

Watching Jesus be arrested so... well... willingly! He didn't even fight back, wouldn't let the disciples fight for him- no resistance whatsoever! And then  watching the religious leaders blindfold him, taunting and beating him with clubs- just the thought of it is sickening.  The trial; the back and forth between Pilate and Herod, the questions, the mocking, the crowd!!! Demanding release of a criminal, and insurrectionist... and further calling for Jesus's death. Watching Jesus walk up that hill was heartbreaking; and those who stuck around to watch were absolutely amazed to see him offer forgiveness for all... even from the cross! 

When his head finally dropped to one side and he breathed his last, we felt like it was also, our final breath. We wept.  We watched his body be taken down from the cross and laid in a tomb.  We wept.  We watched the tomb be sealed, we watched the women prepare spices for his burial ritual, and finally, like everyone, we went  home.  We wept.

This morning there is nothing left in us.  No words, no emotion, no energy to think, no tears left to weep...  And so we have little alternative but to rest. Thank you Jesus, for the day of rest.  We need it. 

Tomorrow the sun will rise; tomorrow love will rise; tomorrow we will be invited to rise.  But today we are given a simple gift.  Breathe in sacred rest.  Rest in hope, rest in faith, rest in love...

Restfully,
Pastor Linda

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