What about Saturday?

When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. - John 19:30, ESV

The Greek word we translate as "it is finished" is tetelestai, a word that is used in financial, judicial, and military contexts.

The debt is totally repaid.

The sentence is fully served.

The victory is completely won.

When Jesus willing went to the Cross, he paid our debt, took our punishment, and won the war against sin and death. Completely. It was finished.

But his disciples still had to live through Saturday.

I can imagine it. The pain. The heartache. Fear, anger, disillusionment. Unlike us, they didn't have the benefit of knowing that come Sunday the stone would be rolled away and the tomb would be empty. They had to wait.

If that is where you find yourself this Easter weekend, mourning what you thought was supposed to be and uncertain of what seems to be coming down the line now, I want to remind you: The story is finished, but it isn't over yet. There are still chapters to unfold between here and there. Hold on, and wait for the dawn. God is here with you now, and He'll be waiting for you there too.

On the other side of Saturday.