EASTER SATURDAY NIGHT

BY STEVE DUNN

It was a grim night. The second night they had endured since Jesus had died on Golgotha. Only one of them had been there to witness the death. John in his youthfulness seemed to have no fear that the older men in their practicality had embraced. They were behind closed, locked doors. The Jewish leaders had seemed uninterested in pursuing them on that Sabbath evening when Joseph of Aramathea had hastily buried Jesus’ body. But now another day had passed and many sensed that the triumphant Sanhedrin might now turn a maliced eye towards the remaining disciples of that dead troublemaker.

The night of Jesus’ arrest had been one of turmoil and confusion. Then came word that Judas had hung himself. An impulsive Peter had followed Jesus, but by the dawn of Friday had denied Jesus three times. Then he had come slinking back in shame to join them in their grim gathering.

This night, Saturday night, a weariness had replaced some of the grief and even now some were asking if they should just slip out of Jerusalem. They were not sure of the welcome they would find in Galilee, but it might be safer for a time.

Desperate men, now discouraged and depressed.

It was Easter Saturday night.

ON THE NIGHT HE WAS BETRAYED

A reprise of a previous post. - STEVE

For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” -  1 Corinthians 11:23-24

"On the night he was betrayed ..."

What horrible, haunting words.  With these words the Apostle Paul begins his words of instruction to the Corinthians regarding the practice of the Lord's Supper.  The section contains a powerful statement of purpose and promise for all believers. 

Nonetheless, it is introduced by those six troubling, accusatory words.

Paul was referring to Judas' betrayal of Jesus but we would be spiritually remiss if we think that's all the text suggests.  For Judas was Jesus' first betrayer. He was not and is not the last.  On this Maundy Thursday I find myself drawn to those words.  I ask myself, "Am I one who betrays him?"  Not that I sold him to his enemies for 30 pieces of silver.  But are there not other ways I betray him by callously or lightly ignoring what He has done for me and the price He paid for my sin?

Do I not betray him ....
     When I operate from selfish pride instead of sacrificial humility?
     When I use my faith to satisfy my own needs and ignore the lostness of my neighbor?
     When I hold onto my anger and withhold my forgiveness?
     When I grow silent about my faith when others speak openly and scornfully?
     When I try to blend into the world and its values instead of risking it for the sake of the world?
     When I think that going to church or even belonging to one is the same as authentic discipleship?
     When I excuse persistent sin instead of confessing and surrendering to His transforming power?
     When I pursue 30 pieces of silver rather than giving all for Jesus?

As you come to the table of the Lord tonight, ask yourself, "Do I still betray him?"

(C) 2011 by Stephen L Dunn