Holy Saturday

Resting from his work today
In the tomb the Savior lay;
Still he slept, from head to feet
Shrouded in the winding sheet,
Lying in the rock alone,
Hidden by the sealèd stone.

Late at even there was seen
Watching, Mary Magdalene;
Early, ere the break of day,
Sorrowful she took her way
To the holy garden glade,
Where her buried Friend was laid.

So with thee, till life shall end,
I would solemn vigil spend:
Let me hew thee, Christ, a shrine
In this rocky heart of mine,
Where in pure embalmèd cell,
None but thou may ever dwell.

Myrrh and spices will I bring,
True affection’s offering;
Close the doors from sight and sound
Of the busy world around;
And in patient watch remain
Until Christ appear again.

Thomas Whytehead, 1842; alt.
Tune: REDHEAD (7.7.7.7.7.7.)
Richard Redhead, 1853




Eight (Liturgical) Years Ago: O sorrow deep

Seven (Liturgical) Years Ago: All the sacrifice is ended

Six (Liturgical) Years Ago: When Jesus was convicted