Holy Saturday
Deborah Meroff (Maine, USA)

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” - John 8:12 (NIV)



On my first Easter in Greece a friend took me to an Orthodox church for the Holy Saturday nighttime service. Hundreds of people gathered for this important occasion — each bearing a long, white candle. As Resurrection Sunday dawned, the priests began chanting, “Christos Anesti” or “Christ is risen,” and passed the “holy light” from their tapers to the worshipers’ candles. Each person then passed the light along and echoed, “Christ is risen!”

Christ described not only himself as the light of the world; he told his disciples that they too are light (see Matt. 5:14). While still carrying our bright-burning candles, we slowly exited the church and walked back to our homes. What a powerful image of spreading the light of the world through the community! And we are called to share that resurrection hope wherever we go.

Easter reminds us that we, who lived in darkness, have seen a great light. May the Son’s love shine clearly through us!



TODAY'S PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for the new life we have in Christ. May we follow his guiding light in all that we do. Amen.



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TODAY'S READING
1 John 1:5-10


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
I am God’s light bearer to others.


PRAYER FOCUS
Easter celebrations around the world