Articles
Somber Sabbath while "Low in the Grave He Lay"
We focus on the anguish Jesus endured from Gethsemane to Golgotha for us, and rightly so, but what must that somber Sabbath been like for His very confused and scared loved ones while “Low in the Grave He Lay” who didn’t know that soon He would rise (Luke 23:54-56)?
I. John 19:38-41. Expectations were dashed. He had just entered Jerusalem triumphantly, hailed by the crowd as the awaited Messiah in David’s line (Matthew 21:7-11). But now it was over. Death was so final. Just prepare some spices before dark and rest … because it is the Sabbath.
Low in the grave He lay–Jesus, my Savior! Waiting the coming day–Jesus my Lord!
II. Matthew 26:62-66. Enemies were vigilant. They had just watched Him enter Jerusalem triumphantly and heard Him hailed as the awaited Messiah in David’s line. Still they had managed to kill Him. Now, how to secure the tomb lest His followers steal His body and claim that He’s alive?
Vainly they watch His bed–Jesus, my Savior! Vainly they seal the dead–Jesus my Lord!
III. Luke 24:1-14. Excitement was building … but they didn’t know it! Gloom to the tomb characterized the women’s trip early on the first day of the week. Their only concern was who would move the stone for them as the soldiers weren’t likely to help. But then, what’s this? Where is He?
Death cannot keep his prey–Jesus, my Savior! He tore the bars away–Jesus my Lord!
He is risen! How can that be? The verses sung slowly and pianissimo (pp) give way to a chorus sung quickly and fortissimo (ff) as realization comes that Jesus has indeed overcome death.
Up from the grave He arose With a mighty triumph o’er His foes; He arose a Victor from the dark domain, And He lives forever with His saints to reign: He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose!
