stephen R Harrison

“In the Silence”

“Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes.

But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.”

-Luke 23:56

Silence can be deafening. We don’t like it, so we fill it with meaningless noise. Anticipation is agonizing. We aren’t good at waiting, so we busy ourselves with pointless activities. Silence. Anticipation. Hopeful waiting. These were the experiences of Jesus’ disciples after his crucifixion. They helplessly clung to his promise of return. Jesus’ body was taken off the cross, wrapped in linen, and placed in Joseph’s tomb. Women who accompanied Jesus from Galilee prepared spices and perfumes. What else could they do? The Sabbath was upon them – a day of rest. Imagine that Saturday. They had just witnessed the horrific crucifixion of Jesus the day before, yet the greatest victory awaited them the next day. But in the middle – waiting – silence. This was a Sabbath like no other. How would they spend it? What would they do? They were caught in the in-between, heads spinning at what they had just experienced and hearts hopeful, perhaps fearful, about what was to come.

The Gospel writers are mostly silent on this day, aptly termed Silent Saturday. While anxiety and uncertainty most assuredly plagued the disciples, God wasn’t unfamiliar with such times. After creating the world, God rested on the seventh day – the Sabbath. How was he on that day? Was he worried about the future? Did he pace the halls of heaven? No, we are told after finishing his work – he rested (Genesis 2:2). The day before Jesus died, he said, “It is finished” (John 19:30). Now, before his resurrection, the day was uneventful. Yes, sacrifices were being made, and the noise of Passover was abounding, but none of that mattered as their hope had died. It was different. Time stood still. Was his death the final blow to their hope of the Messiah, their Savior, and their Lord? Don’t be confused because God’s plan was at work. Jesus had to die so he could resurrect. The cross killed Jesus, but the suspense, I’m sure, was killing them. Wouldn’t it you?

You are invited to rest, be quiet, and wait on this Silent Saturday. Would you sit with the disciples? Would you allow the peace of God to wash over you? Will anxiousness win? Will fear overtake you? We can learn much from this day of Holy Week. Patience is needed. Trust is required. Silence is golden. Jesus experienced a horrific day yesterday. He is resting in the tomb today. He will rise victoriously tomorrow. But today, we rest. Allow the Spirit of God to wash over you with peace and serenity. In quiet worship, rest. Jesus is coming. 

Questions: 

What emotions, thoughts, and words do you think the disciples had on that Saturday?

How good are you waiting in hopeful silence?

Prayer:

Jesus, we humble ourselves and ask you to show us your ways and teach us your paths. We know our knowledge and wisdom are inadequate and deeply flawed. Your ways are perfect and your character is loving and merciful. Teach us, merciful Teacher. Minister to us in silence. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Read: 

Luke 23:50-56

Action Step:

Plan to sit in solitude and silence for thirty minutes. Can you sit for an hour? More? During this time, think about an area of life that has continued to be difficult because of the lack of God’s teaching and truths. Begin with prayer by asking the Lord for humility to learn from him. Ask him your first step. If you get a clear answer, write it down and do it. Come back to this page and write down other insight you learn from the Lord and His Word and Spirit and use it in times of thanksgiving and worship.