The enduring significance of the period between Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection (Easter Saturday) persists through the ages. Long ago, Christians celebrated Easter Saturday as part of the larger Easter festival.
The day lies in its position within Holy Week, the period leading up to Easter Sunday likewise In modern days it holds a special place in the Christian calendar, as it marks the time between Jesus’ crucifixion on Good Friday and his resurrection on Easter Sunday.
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Its observance varied among different Christian denominations and traditions, the Eastern Orthodox churches used a different calculation based on the Julian calendar, often resulting in the Orthodox Easter celebration occurring later than that of Protestants, Roman Catholics and other churches.
Easter Saturday, also known as Holy Saturday, holds significant meaning and importance to Christians. It commemorates the day that Jesus Christ lay in the tomb after his crucifixion and before his resurrection on Easter Sunday. It is a day of both sadness and joy among Christians in many cultures, and many churches hold an Easter vigil (watch) service to observe this day.
Addressing attendees, Apostle Gera Meza, the National Spokesperson of the Zimbabwe Christian Churches Association (ZCCA) and founder of Season of Harvest Global Ministries, at a 3-day Easter conference hosted by Pastor and Amai Chamatowa in Dzivarasekwa at their Evangelical Church. He emphasised the significance of the day when Jesus was laid in the tomb, highlighting its importance to all Christians.
“As Christians we celebrate and express gratitude to God on this day, while also emphasising on prayer, because He gave us his son Jesus Christ who later bore our sins and problems on the cross.”
“Easter Saturday symbolises the day when our sins were buried, leading to our purification,” he said.
Prophet Elijah Motowashe of Heaven Life Church in Kuwadzana 2 delivered a message emphasising the significance of Jesus Christ’s sacrifice for humanity on this day, as he expressed the belief that as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice, individuals are destined to experience the goodness of life before facing death.
“Because Jesus Christ died for us. You will not die poor, you are going to experience the goodness of his death. You are going to have all the good things in this world.”
Prophet Motowashe emphasised the importance of partaking in the body and blood of Jesus, symbolising a spiritual connection that ensures individuals become eternal sons and daughters of Christ.This message serves as a reminder of the spiritual significance of Easter and the profound impact of Jesus’ sacrifice on the lives of believers.
While Apostle Godfrey Kudita, the visionary of Word Impact International Church, and the renowned businessman and economist, Dr. Nigel Chanakira, came together to discuss a topic , “Easter Business,” which was aimed to impart valuable lessons to entrepreneurs, drawing parallels between the resurrection of Jesus and the cycles of business.
“Just as Jesus Christ was crucified and laid in a tomb before rising again, even if a business faces collapse after a long period of success, it can experience a revival,” said Dr Chanakira.
Their message resonated with the idea that regardless of one’s extensive business knowledge, understanding spiritual aspects is essential. They stressed that spirituality should not be underestimated or pitted against education, as embracing both is crucial for success. They encouraged individuals to embrace the spirit of Jesus Christ, the symbol of resurrection, as a means to elevate their businesses to greater heights.
Holy Saturday is a time for Christians to reflect on the events of Good Friday and prepare for the celebration of Easter Sunday. It is a day of consecration and stillness, allowing believers to rest in the presence of God and remember the sacrifice made by Jesus on the cross. The day is also significant as it marks the completion of Jesus’s work of bestowing redemption to mankind, as he declared “It is finished!” upon his death, signifying that no further atonement was required.
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“Growing up in the Reformed Church of Zimbabwe, Easter Saturday has always been a day of reflection and anticipation for me. It’s a time when we pause to remember the sacrifice of Jesus on Good Friday and eagerly await the joy of Easter Sunday. The significance of this day has been passed down through generations, reminding us of the hope and promise that Easter brings to our faith,” said Wadzanai Mahunondo.
