# Holy Saturday reflections
*2015-04-03*

> Bill Young reflects on Isaiah 55 and the mystery of Holy Saturday, linking the Scripture to the Paschal mystery, baptism, and the Eucharist.

## Scripture for Holy Saturday

Today's reading is Isaiah 55:2‑3, 8‑11. The prophet asks, “Why do you spend money on that which is not bread, and your labor on that which does not satisfy? Listen carefully to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourself in rich food. Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, and your soul shall live.” He reminds us that God’s ways and thoughts are higher than ours, and that, like rain and snow that water the earth and cause it to bring forth seed, God’s word will accomplish the purpose for which it is sent.

## God’s transcendent love

The prophet’s images point us to the mystery of God’s love for the world. On this “night of nights,” we recall how God entered history, creating the universe and then sealing a new covenant with the blood of His Son. The incarnation makes possible the salvation of all people, drawing the infinite God into intimate relationship with us.

## Renewing our baptismal promises

As we gather on Holy Saturday, we are reminded of our own baptism. Like the newly baptized who receives the Eucharist, we are called to recommit ourselves to the living Paschal mystery. By renewing the promises made at baptism, we affirm that we belong to the Body of Christ and are participants in the divine love that sustains the world.

## Living the Paschal mystery today

Our celebration of Holy Saturday is not merely a pause between Good Friday and Easter; it is a time to contemplate the silence in which God’s love works. In that silence, the Word of God is being fulfilled, preparing the way for the Resurrection. As we await Easter, we are invited to enter into that divine silence, trusting that God’s promises will be fulfilled.

*Holy Saturday invites us to trust in God’s higher ways, renewing our baptismal vows as we await the joy of the Resurrection.*