Wind whipped through the trees before dawn. Darkness entombed the lake.
Heavy clouds blocked the sun as light crept into the shadows. Waves rushed across the water.
The morning gloom seemed an appropriate setting to read of Jesus’ mock trial, crucifixion, and burial. I read each of the Gospel accounts from the Last Supper until His burial.
From celebrating on Palm Sunday to the despair on Good Friday, His followers felt a full range of emotions. In less than a week, their lives went from hope and light to anguish and darkness. Uncertainty for the future.
Good Friday appeared to be the end. A ruthless end to a promising, glorious life. Questions filled their minds and hearts. What do we do now? Will we be killed too? Where do we go? Was Jesus lying?
The present pandemic poses similar questions. We struggle to know what to believe. What do we do to be safe? Will we or loved ones fall to the disease? How do we cope?
For people who don’t know Jesus, there is a pit of despair. Fear, anxiety and desperation fill their lives.
However, for Christians who know the rest of the story, there is peace in the turmoil. The journey is not easy or without questions but ultimately, we know God is in control. The pandemic clearly shows we aren’t in control.
After a time, Good Friday and the pandemic will end. In the meantime, we have silent Saturday which is a time to reflect and trust God.
As we wait expectantly for Easter, we can also look ahead to the time when the virus is but a memory.
Near the place He was crucified, there was a garden with a newly prepared tomb. Because it was the day of preparation, they arranged to lay Jesus in this tomb so they could rest on the Sabbath. (John 19: 41-42 The Voice)
Loving Father, help us trust you in dark times just as we do in good times. Waiting is hard. Don’t let us forget the lessons from our times of despair. Amen
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