God’s Guiding Word: Prayer
Introduction
Mark 15:42–47: Joseph of Arimathea approaches Pilate and asks to remove the body of Jesus from the cross. He arranges to have Jesus buried in a tomb. Two women watch and see where Jesus’s body is placed.
Today’s Key Verse: Mark 15:43b
Joseph went boldly into the presence of Pilate and asked him for the body of Jesus.
Reading
42-43 It was toward evening when Joseph of Arimathea arrived. He was a respected member of the Council, who was waiting for the coming of the Kingdom of God. It was Preparation day (that is, the day before the Sabbath), so Joseph went boldly into the presence of Pilate and asked him for the body of Jesus. 44 Pilate was surprised to hear that Jesus was already dead. He called the army officer and asked him if Jesus had been dead a long time. 45 After hearing the officer’s report, Pilate told Joseph he could have the body. 46 Joseph bought a linen sheet, took the body down, wrapped it in the sheet, and placed it in a tomb which had been dug out of solid rock. Then he rolled a large stone across the entrance to the tomb. 47 Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph were watching and saw where the body of Jesus was placed.
Reflect
Today’s reading tells us that Joseph of Arimathea was “a respected member of the Council.” Do you think he was present at Jesus’s trial? Why do you think he took responsibility for Jesus’s burial? He is described as one “who was waiting for the coming of the Kingdom of God” (verse 42). What might his thoughts have been at this time? What is your understanding of the “Kingdom of God”? The women mentioned in the concluding verse were mentioned in yesterday’s reading (15:40) and witnessed Jesus’s crucifixion. What are your thoughts about the significance of their presence?
Pray
Your kingdom come, O Lord. I love you, Lord Jesus, and promise to serve you always. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Mark 16:1–20: Jesus is raised to life.