Day 46: Mystery Saturday
Genesis 3:15
Colossians 2:13-15
2 Thessalonians 1:5-10
Luke 24:46
Ornament: Empty
Today we mark “Mystery Saturday” – the day between Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection.
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It is impossible for us to know exactly what happened with Jesus when he died. It is a controversial topic among theologians. The Apostles’ Creed states that Jesus “descended into hell” and this is based mostly on I Peter 3:18-20. It is ultimately a mystery.
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This much we know: Jesus suffered a real, physical death. He also experienced the full weight of God’s wrath against sin, poured out upon him. He fully completed all the work necessary to justify us before God, and to present us with no blemish on our record. Praise God!!
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Let’s go all the way back to Day 3, when we studied Genesis 3:15 and the promise of a redeemer who, with a bruised heel, will crush the head of our enemy. Today is the day between the bruise of Jesus’ heel on the cross, and the resurrection that will crush death.
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Jesus’ followers observed the Sabbath after burying him before sunset on Friday. They must have been devastated. They still did not understand the necessity of Jesus’ suffering in the context of his ultimate victory on Resurrection Sunday.
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You may find yourself in the midst of suffering today, wondering about the final outcome. It may be so difficult to trust that God will bring good from the challenges you face. Yet, it is often through suffering that we overcome a sin or attitude that is hindering our spirit’s growth.
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Christians live in the “now and not yet” – we rest in Jesus’ victory at the cross, while we still anticipate our ultimate reunion with him. Unlike Mary and the disciples, we have the advantage of knowing that the Resurrection will happen! We know that God has claimed victory over even death. He rules over your suffering as well. It is in his plan and it is for good. Spend today resting in the assurance that victory will come, and that your place as his beloved child is secure if you put your faith in Jesus. He has proven that he is worthy of your trust.
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Bonus inspirational video, one of our favorites: “It’s Friday, but Sunday’s coming!”
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