Holy Saturday, the day between Jesus’ crucifixion on Good Friday and His resurrection on Easter Sunday, is a somber yet hopeful time for Christians. Pastor Jesse Bradley emphasized that Holy Saturday is not just a day of sadness, but a reminder of God’s promises. He pointed out that Jesus’ resurrection on Easter Sunday shows that no one can stop the Lord or His plans, despite doubts and opposition. Bradley encouraged believers to remember the love and sacrifice of Jesus and to trust in God’s sustaining grace, even in times of trial.
During Holy Saturday, Christians are reminded that while they may face grief and trials, they are never alone and can rely on God’s plan and provision. Bradley stressed the importance of not just focusing on feelings, but on the factual basis of their faith. He suggested cultivating habits that provide hope, such as reading the Bible, finding a supportive faith community, and serving others. By serving selflessly and trusting in God’s promises, individuals can find healing, restoration, and a renewed sense of purpose even in challenging times.
The story of the women preparing spices on Holy Saturday and going to the tomb on Easter Sunday, where they found the stone rolled away, serves as a reminder that trials will pass and that God rewards steadfast faith. Bradley encouraged believers to follow the example of these women, who continued to love God and remain faithful even before witnessing the miracle of Christ’s resurrection. He highlighted the importance of pausing, thanking Jesus, trusting in God’s Word, and choosing hope during Holy Saturday, knowing that Sunday – the day of resurrection – is coming.
Bradley stressed that Easter is ultimately about God’s love and the salvation of humanity, emphasizing the sacrificial nature of Jesus’s death and resurrection. He pointed out that Jesus’s suffering and death allow believers to connect with Him on a personal level, as they are not alone in their struggles. While Holy Saturday may be a time of grief and reflection, the promise of Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday provides reassurance that God’s promises endure and His plans cannot be thwarted. By keeping faith, trusting in God’s grace, and serving others, Christians can find peace and hope even in the darkest of times.
In conclusion, Holy Saturday serves as a time for Christians to reflect on the love and sacrifice of Jesus, to trust in God’s promises, and to wait in hopeful anticipation of Easter Sunday. Through the example of the women who faithfully continued to serve and love God even in the face of tragedy, believers are reminded that trials will pass and that God rewards steadfast faith. Bradley’s message encourages Christians to cultivate habits that provide hope, to serve selflessly, and to remain steadfast in their trust in God’s plan and provision. Ultimately, Holy Saturday is a reminder that even in the midst of sorrow and uncertainty, God’s promises stand firm and His resurrection power brings hope and renewal to all who believe.
