Holy Saturday, April 19. 2025
“30 Minutes Alone in Silence”
As we work towards the conclusion of the 2025 Lenten Season, we are tasked to observe at least 30 minutes alone in silence. The purpose of this Lenten Challenge is to honor the time that Jesus’ body lay in the tomb following his crucifixion.
Today is often referred to as Holy Saturday, and it will be observed in many ways. Christians around the world will remember this day with many traditions, including fasting, prayer, and limited activities. It seems only fit that we do something to reflect upon this terrible time of sorrow experienced by the world after Jesus’ tomb was closed. A few moments of silence today will be more significant than one might think, so please don’t shun away from this one.
What was it like in Jerusalem that day, 2,000 years ago? Did the birds still sing? Did the grass continue to grow? Did the tides change? Were the skies overcast and cloudy or clear and bright? Most of the people in Jerusalem probably continued to live their lives as normally, but did they notice something different? If so, what did they experience?
These kinds of things swirl in my mind, but if I knew the answers, my life wouldn’t change. I’d continue to live as normal, with a few additional details added to my understanding. The real changes experienced through Easter have little to do with the weather but everything to do with my own relationship with God. I need to do better. I need to try harder. God did His part. Now, it’s time for me to do mine.
What about you? What will you do in your 30 minutes of silence today? Spend some time today with the LORD and experience something special, helpful, and hopeful.
“Be still, and know that I am God!” (Psalm 46:10a)
