Sabbath - Waiting in the Dark - Holy Week Day 7

The day following Jesus’ crucifixion was Shabbat (or Sabbath in English). This solemn day of rest has been an integral part of the Jewish lifestyle ever since the Lord gave the people of Israel the ten commandments in the wilderness. 

Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord your God. In it you shall do no work…(Exodus 20:8-10)

Shabbat was notably a time where people rested from their work, gathered for fellowship, and worshiped the Lord. Traditionally, it was celebrated from Friday sundown to Saturday sundown. 

Can you imagine what this sabbath in particular must have been like following Jesus’ death? For some - it may have been marked by deep disappointment because Jesus didn’t meet their expectations as the Messiah. Perhaps for others - there was fear, confusion, or even pride. For His followers - I imagine there was unbearable grief because Jesus was their Rabbi, their mentor, and their friend. 

While Jesus predicted His death to His followers on multiple occasions, Scripture tells us that the disciples, “...understood none of these things; this saying was hidden from them, and they did not know the things which were spoken” (Luke 18:34). While the disciples should have been eagerly anticipating the miracle of the resurrection - they were scattered and clouded by grief.

Can you imagine the conversations they were having during Shabbat? 

“I can’t believe He’s gone...”

“None of this would have happened if Judas didn’t betray Him.” 

“I thought He was the Savior.” 

“Who will save us now?” 

“I wish I spoke up to defend Him.” 

Oh, praise the Lord that we know that death was not the end of the story! 

I believe, like the followers of Jesus then, we too are called to wait with anticipation of the miracles that God has promised. We will face challenging moments and even seasons that will make us question our faith. But if we hold onto Jesus, we will see the goodness of God in the land of living! The Psalmist certainly found it to be true when he wrote:  “weeping may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning!” (Psalms 30:5) 

Even when our hearts are heavy and we don’t understand what God is doing, we can trust that resurrection is coming, and that joy will break through. 

Reading Guide 

• Exodus 20:8-10

• Luke 18:31-34

• Psalms 30:5 

Reflection Questions 

1. How might you honor Sabbath in this season of your life?

2. Can you recall a time when you were in a difficult season, but later saw God’s goodness come through?

3. What does waiting with expectation look like for you? 

Prayer Focus

Lord, I thank you that you give your beloved rest. The fullness of joy is found in Your presence.  I pray that you would resurrect my heart and remind me that hope is never lost.