Solemn Saturday

It is very difficult to explain how I feel on this Solemn Saturday...the day between death and resurrection, loss and hope, grief and joy. Throughout Holy Week I think most believers feel the whole range of human emotions. I know I have been on a roller coaster ride through guilt, gratitude, sorrow, rejoicing and utter awe at the love Jesus has for us. That he allowed Himself to suffer such indignity, physical pain, and death for us is part of the mystery, the shadowy plan God has for His human creation.

My background might be a bit different from most believers. I was raised in church from birth and was called to accept Christ at the age of 7. Knowledge and understanding of my sinfulness came at Sunday services while the invitational hymn was sung. “Have thine own way, Lord. Have thine own way. Thou art the potter. I am the clay…” I wept and a short time later asked Christ into my heart. 

My time of running and rebellion didn’t come until later, as a young adult in college. I gave in to temptation as young people will but I had that foundation with Jesus to help me through the adversity and bring me back into fellowship with him. It’s impossible for me to remember much about my feelings and behavior before I accepted Christ. I feel like I have always been a believer. I don’t remember a time when I ever doubted that the bible is truth and God is present. 

I don’t mean to say that my faith has never been tried or tested. I have been through some terrible experiences through the years but no matter what difficulty came, God stayed faithful and just and loving and He walked with me through each dark valley. On Solemn Saturday I am remembering when Jesus walked through His own dark valley. Alone, in excruciating pain, humiliation, and suffering death, He walked through that valley carrying our lives and the weight of our sins. Our debt is paid. We owe nothing. But the very least we can do is give Him our love and gratitude and follow His example and teaching. This is my quest for the rest of my life...to serve the One who saved my life and my soul. To God be the glory!

Forever and ever!

Karen Butler Ogle