19^th April 2025

Alex Buabeng-Korsah

TOPIC: THE DARK SABBATH

THEME SCRIPTURE: "Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.” (John 12:24)  

PREPARATORY QUESTIONS:

1. How did the disciples handle Jesus' death the day after?

The cross stood bare, the tomb sealed. The disciples huddled in a locked room, their faith buried with Jesus’ body. The One who calmed storms, raised Lazarus, and promised eternal life now lay lifeless. “Where is He?” "Is that all; is it the end?" they whispered. The Sabbath’s enforced rest mirrored their inner paralysis—a holy pause before heaven’s counterstroke.

The day after Jesus' crucifixion became a day when hope was swallowed. 

In 1944, Corrie ten Boom watched her sister Betsie die in Ravensbrück concentration camp. Corrie later wrote, “In darkness, God’s truth shines most clear.” Like the disciples, she couldn’t see the fruit—how her post-war forgiveness ministry would heal thousands, including a former Nazi guard. Death’s silence was not the end, but soil for resurrection.  

Beloved, in the plan of God, why would He ordain dark Saturdays? How could Jesus bring these disciples to such a place that their faith could be destroyed? Why would God allow a dark Sabbath in the life of a Christian? 

First, to shatter human logic. Jesus’ death seemed like a defeat, but that is what did the victory. It dismantled sin’s power (Colossians 2:15), and Augustine wrote, “God judged it better to bring good out of evil than to permit no evil.”  

Secondly, to cultivate trust: The disciples’ despair purified their faith. “Faith is believing in advance what only makes sense in reverse,” said Philip Yancey.  

Lastly, to prepare for glory: A seed’s destruction unlocks its potential. Jesus’ burial was the womb of His kingship (Romans 6:4). And except a corn of wheat falls down, it will remain alone.

What must we do when it seems like it is over?

Beloved, during such periods it is alright to lament honestly: Pour out your confusion intimately (Psalm 13:1-2). Dietrich Bonhoeffer, awaiting execution, wrote, “God does not fill the emptiness—He keeps it empty so He may fill it with Himself.”  

Additionally, recall His promises: Jesus foretold His resurrection (Matthew 16:21). He has also foretold that He will never leave you or forsake you. When you go through the fire, and also through the waters, He will be with you. Draw strength from these promises.

Charles Spurgeon said, “The cross was the dying of a seed; the resurrection, its sprouting.” Your darkest hour is God’s chosen moment. Hold fast. Resurrection Sunday is coming.

FURTHER READING: Isaiah 53:1-12

Call to Salvation: Today is your day if you have not received salvation by turning over your life to Jesus Christ. Click here to do so.

QUESTION TO HELP YOU MEDITATE ON THE WORD

1. Are you in a place of despair? How are you handling it?

PRAYER

Father, in my silent Saturdays, when dreams lie buried and fear shouts loudest, remind me: the tomb is empty. Teach me to wait with You, not for You. Turn my grief into ground for glory. Let my life prove that death is not the end—it’s your beginning, in Jesus' precious name. Hallelujah!

One-Year Bible Reading Plan

Acts 19; Joshua 12-13; Psalm 109