Matthew 27:57-60 (NLT)
57 As evening approached, Joseph, a rich man from Arimathea who had become a follower of Jesus, 58 went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. And Pilate issued an order to release it to him. 59Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a long sheet of clean linen cloth. 60 He placed it in his own new tomb, which had been carved out of the rock. Then he rolled a great stone across the entrance and left.
Heavenly Father, when I think of your Son in a tomb it seems unthinkable. The shouts of the crowd to crucify him, the beating, the mockery, the nails and now the silence of the tomb with the great stone sealing its entrance.
Father, we know that Saturday was the day between his death and resurrection. But that Saturday is one they will never forget, though by your grace that did survive. It was the worst day in their lives. It was a day without a future.
But, Father, we know in your purpose and plan for the salvation made available to us through your Son, it was just a day of transition. It was a hinge on which the door of hope would swing.
Father, Saturday was a long day, but it did end. And the morning light of resurrection Sunday filled the sky, the great stone was rolled away and the Savior of mankind rose from the dead.
Father, without Saturday how could we ever really appreciate Sunday. And in those times when our life feels like Saturday, we know Sunday is coming. Father, we bless your Holy Name for such glorious hope
Amen
