Saturday, April 11, 2020

Holy Saturday - The Tomb and The Light



“Our favorite place is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.” That was the response of Arab Lutheran friends that my wife and I visited many years ago in Jerusalem. We asked which holy site was the most meaningful for them. They knew it all. They were lifelong residents of East Jerusalem. My father-in-law was an executive for Pan American Airways and was friends with Samir, a travel agent, and his wife, Mary.



Jill and I were more impressed by the garden tomb that is maintained near the Jerusalem bus station. It has the look and feel of the tomb that artists have represented throughout the centuries. Whereas the Church of the Holy Sepulchre (Jesus’ tomb according to legend) is in a crowded part of town.

There are layers of church built upon the site. Each part of Christianity has claimed a portion. The Ethiopian Orthodox church maintains a community on the roof of the place. It seemed like a grand aggregation. We wondered what the fascination for our local friends was.



They told us they marveled to see all the world gathering in one spot to show veneration for the one who demonstrated love and followed that love to the point of death. I wonder, have we stopped on this Holy Saturday to offer thanks to Christ for his great love?



What I appreciate about this place, is an event that happens in the Orthodox tradition. It is the tradition of Holy Fire that claims the light of God enters the tomb and a holy fire is lit as we remember Jesus’ resurrection. I wonder, are we ready to come aflame with the light of resurrection hope?



I understand that Covid-19 has closed the Church of the Holy Sepulchre this year. Are you ready for the light of resurrection to flood your life?

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