Jesus is Essential
John 19:40–42: Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby.
The burial of Jesus is part of the gospel. Its significance lies in the fact that it was the completion of Jesus’ suffering and humiliation. It also pointed up the reality of His death and set the stage for His coming bodily resurrection. Also, in Jesus’ burial He identified with believers who will die and be buried. Joseph and Nicodemus’ act of love and respect for the body of Jesus was for them dangerous, costly, and without any personal gain. The service of Christians for their living Lord should be equally courageous and sacrificial, for their labor is not in vain. 1
Walking with Jesus
Could you say that your love for Jesus is steadfast? When has it been immovable? What does it take for you to always abound in the work of the Lord? What did it take for Joseph and Nicodemus to be the “pall bearers” for Jesus? What attributes would you like to see more dominant in your life?
For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. 1 Corinthians 15:3–4
Serve Jesus with a courageous, sacrificial heat and your labor will be blessed.
Praying
Lord, thank You for proving that You’re the resurrection and the life.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary.
