Psalm 31:1-4, 15-16, Lamentations 3:1-9, 19-24, I Peter 4:1-8, Matthew 27:57-66

Some say that Holy Saturday is the day that Jesus rested from His work of providing salvation to the world. As I let my mind roam back, I think of some of the events that led to that fateful day: the miracles; preaching; the healings; fulfilling of prophecy; the teaching of his disciples; the betrayal of a friend; the agony of his suffering in Gethsemane when he prayed for release from his assignment; Peter’s denial; the mocking/insulting crowd that once hailed him as Hosanna; the beatings; the whippings, the scourging; the suffering of the cross and lastly being forsaken by His father. Then, finally before dying on that cross, he states “It is finished”.

I don’t know that I will ever fully understand that depth of love that led Christ to do what he did for us. However, I am grateful for it. I do know that, like Jesus, in this life we will suffer and through this suffering we will continue to be transformed into his very image. Following His example, we must strive to be obedient to the will and way of our Father and complete the assignments given to us, no matter the struggle. For there is also a rest provided for us each day as we rely on the word that God has given us.

“This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope. The Lord’s loving kindnesses indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. “The Lord is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I have hope in Him.”

Lamentations 3:21-24

There is something that is so incredibly gratifying about completing the assignment. With that final exhale, you know that every challenge, every problem, hardship, tear and moment of agony was worth it. Finishing the assignment that God has set before you may take you to places you least expect and put people into your path that may challenge you in ways you don’t expect. However, it is the journey and our obedience to God that brings us into harmony with Him. It is in those moments of harmony that there is true peace and rest.

Angie B. Bryant, Assistant Dean of Students

Division of Student Affairs