Daily Reflections

Holy Saturday Easter Vigil

Scripture:

Genesis 1:1-2:2
Genesis 22:1-18
Exodus 14:15-15:1
Isaiah 54:5-14
Isaiah 55:1-11
Baruch 3:9-15, 32-4:4
Ezekiel 36:16-17a, 18-28
Romans 6:3-11
Luke 24:1-12

Reflection:

“Then God said”

As we celebrate Holy Saturday, it is a day of silence, deep reflection, and trust in the midst of uncertainty. Christians are called to hold on to hope even when it seems the bleakest. This day, situated between the sorrow of the crucifixion and the joy of the resurrection, mirrors the experience of the disciples, who were filled with confusion, fear, and uncertainty.

Uncertainty—it’s not too hard for anyone to imagine what was racing through the disciples’ minds as this day was unfolding. They had walked with Jesus in the flesh, listened to His promises, and witnessed His miracles, yet on this day, they were unsure of what was next.

As Passionists, we lift high the Cross certain of Christ’s triumphant victory hidden even in suffering. In the stillness of Holy Saturday, we ponder the mystery of death and resurrection. We recall God’s power, evident from the beginning of creation, which breaks through doubt and fear.

This day resonates with our own humanity, relating to their experience. We often ask, “What do I do now?” or “What’s going to happen?” Yet, this doesn’t separate us from God—it draws us closer. It is only through trials that we come to know a deeper trust in God. Trust lies at the heart of today.

There’s a powerful reminder in a song by Lauren Daigle, “Trust in You”, which speaks to trusting God even when the plan doesn’t make sense or when we don’t understand. She sings, “Truth is, You know what tomorrow brings There’s not a day ahead You have not seen So in all things be my life and breath I want what You want, Lord, and nothing less…… I will trust in you”.

This brings me to the words “[t]hen God said” at the beginning of the Easter Vigil Scripture, revealing the magnificent power of God who speaks and brings things into being. We hear of this power of God manifesting itself from the very beginning. It is through the very word of God that crushes the uncertainty and doubt of death.

Like the apostles, we too at times are left with uncertainty surrounding the thoughts and hearts of each of us, but it is on this day that we come to know and understand the faithfulness in waiting – that each of us is called to a deeper trust, preparing our hearts for the joy of resurrection. May your hearts be drawn to a deeper relationship with Christ as we continue through this triduum, trusting in every spoken word from God.

Lori Kananen, LMC, is the lay Pastoral Associate at Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center in Houston, Texas.