Jesus crucified, his body placed in a tomb
A worried Pilate seals the tomb:
Pilate replied
“Take guards and secure it the best you can.”
So they sealed the tomb and posted guards to protect it.
Matthew 27:65-66
Very little is written about what happened right after Jesus died on the cross. We are told that a man named Joseph of Arimathea was allowed to take Jesus’ body and place it in a nearby, new tomb.
This Joseph is said to be a wealthy, well regarded member of the Jewish high counsel. He is also noted as being a follower of Jesus.
One thing is obviously clear.
Pilate was not only aware of Jesus proclamation of His Resurrection on the 3rd day, but he was also worried that it might be true. Or he was at least concerned that Jesus disciples would try something shady and remove the dead body of Jesus from the tomb to claim fulfillment of the resurrection prophesy.
Pilate orders the tomb to be guarded.
What do you think Jesus’ followers did on Saturday?
Surely, they were filled with sadness and grief, in much the same way we are when we lose someone close to us.
How have you dealt with loss in your life?
I remember when our teenage son was called home. He had endured a lifetime of medical visits, procedures, and surgeries. His life, both good and bad, had consumed our family’s everyday existence. Along with profound grief and sadness, me, my wife, and his 2 brothers felt a strange emptiness.
What now?
This is likely the same reaction of Jesus’ followers. A mix of sadness, bewilderment, some confusion, and probably some fear. Fear that they could be subjected to a similar outcome.
I’m convinced that one of the reasons not much is written about Saturday is that many were hiding. Coupled with the fact that Saturday is the Jewish Sabbath, and Jesus’ followers were at this point still Jews, there was not much to do but sit around and wait.
Not to be forgotten, though, it is that Saturday was also likely a day of nervous anticipation. If they had been listening to Jesus, especially this Passover week, they would know of His promise of resurrection on the third day.
The waiting must have been excruciating. And exciting.
Pray:
Dear Father in heaven, give me comfort in times of sorrow and patience in times of waiting. Let your Spirit fill me with the joy I too will feel when Jesus returns and I am resurrected with all believers into your holy and eternal kingdom. In the name of the crucified Christ Jesus. Amen