"We have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life." Romans 6:4
It is difficult for us to experience Holy Saturday during Holy Week. Although we have read the story and know there is a happy ending of resurrection and new life, this luxury was not available to Jesus’ first followers. All they had was the hope that somehow their Savior would live on in their hearts and imaginations.
Life is often a time of Holy Saturdays with no resurrection in sight. After the shock of death or words that bring despair (such as cancer, divorce, terminal, or unemployment), we have to begin living with the ‘what next’ as we enter the void of unknowing. From time to time, most of us live in Holy Saturday. We experience the joy and excitement of Easter and the disheartening pain of Good Friday, but those are immediate and momentary. In between death and resurrection, fear and hope, pain and comfort, lies the valley of grief and uncertainty of Holy Saturday…not knowing what the future will bring.
We do not know if the cancer can be cured or if we will love again or find the position that fulfills our vocation. As I am writing this, I am in my own transitional phase in my career…through this period, I often ask, “Will I have a chance to be an educator again or do ministry that reflects my gifts and passions?” While I am an affirmative and hopeful thinker, in some ways, I am at complete surrender. Like the women and men on the first Holy Saturday, I live with an uncertain future.
While our resurrections are uncertain…our successes are still in suspense. We can take this time to pray for our uncertainties, lift them up to God for comfort, and listen for God’s voice of companionship, care, and counsel as we live the uncertainty of Holy Saturday.
What is open and uncertain in my life?
Where am I grieving? What losses am I living with?
What are my "what next" questions?
reflected by Tam Lontok
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