For NIV reading see below
42 It was Preparation Day (that is, the day before the Sabbath). So as evening approached, 43 Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. 44 Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead. Summoning the centurion, he asked him if Jesus had already died. 45 When he learned from the centurion that it was so, he gave the body to Joseph. 46 So Joseph bought some linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb cut out of rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. 47 Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where he was laid.
Thoughts...reflections...
Holy Saturday, as others have said, is perhaps the most neglected day of Holy Week. Jesus has been rushed to burial after a triple confirmation of his death, with no ceremony or honor. Joseph, perhaps a member of the Sanhedrin, a prominent Jewish council, described as waiting for the Kingdom of God, which Jesus promised He ushered in with His very presence, takes courage and asks for the body (Greek literally 'corpse') and makes sure Jesus' body is buried before the Sabbath begins. Perhaps Holy Saturday is neglected because all we can do is wait on God, trust in Jesus' promises, and live in light of God's work, that often is still coming.
ReplyDeleteIt's interesting to me that Pilate marveled that HE was dead already. He even asks for confirmation. What's surprising is that HE was beaten so severely, it's amazing that HE actually made it to the cross. No wonder HE didn't last long on the cross. Or was it just FATHER GOD's mercy? My Holy Saturday is often void or empty, waiting, but without fear. I can't imagine the fear the Apostles and Jesus' loyal folowing felt on this particular Sabbath. No hope and no understanding.
ReplyDeleteI applaud Joseph's courage. I marvel that he was awaiting the Kingdom .I could only wish that I would have had that kind of courage .
ReplyDeleteAs 21c Christians, I suppose we are all waiting for the Kingdom too. Though it has come, it is only here and now in part...so we pray, as Jesus taught, 'thy kingdom come!' For a Jew, Holy Saturday would be about over now (sundown). Early in the morning (perhaps 5 or 6am?) some women would go to the tomb in which Jesus' body was expected to be found...to find it empty. And the Easter people begin to be born!
ReplyDeleteBy the way, if you didn't read it, see Liz' comment from yesterday...appreciate the honest reflection Liz, and the desire to live more and more in a way that reflects Jesus' sacrifice for us. We each need to continue figuring out what that looks like for our lives.
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