READING: Mark 15:42-47, Matthew 27:57-61, Luke 23:50-56, John 19:38-42, Matthew 27:62-66, Mark 16:1-8, Matthew 28:1-7, Luke 24:1-12, Mark 16:9-11, John 20:1-18, Matthew 28:8-15
It’s hard to read today’s texts without getting a sense of finality in the first sections of the readings. Jesus was crucified. Joseph asked for His body. Pilate was surprised He had already died. The centurion recognized that Jesus had indeed passed away. Pilate gave the corpse of Christ to Joseph, who wrapped Him in a linen and placed the body in a tomb. Then, he rolled a rock over the tomb—an indication of finality if ever there were one.
Even if the disciples had considered stealing His body, the guards at the tomb would have stopped that act. Likewise, the women who came to anoint His body weren’t sure how they would get into the tomb. Nobody was going in, it seems.
And, it’s clear no one was thinking about anyone coming out of the tomb, either.
But, the story was not over. In the words of the famous sermon, “Sunday’s coming!”
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Tomorrow is the Lord’s Day. Celebrate His resurrection!
DAILY PRAYER: “I praise You, Lord! Amen.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Luke 24:13-43, Mark 16:12-13, John 20:19-23, Mark 16:14, John 20:24-21:25, Matthew 28:16-20, Mark 16:15-18, Luke 24:44-49