WordLive - Year OneSample

Prepare: Have you had to serve someone today? The secret disciple Joseph of Arimathea was wealthy and influential in Jewish society, and probably also well-connected in Roman society since Pilate agreed to see him without an appointment (v 44). Until now he had been a secret disciple of Jesus, keeping his powder dry until this hour when he was needed. Now, when the danger was greatest, he boldly associated himself with the Lord. He had to work quickly to buy the linen cloth (v 46), walk back to the crucifixion site, take down the body, remove the nails from the wrists and ankles, anoint, wrap and carry the body to the tomb, all before the Sabbath. Joseph took on this role of undertaker, which became his greatest act of service, as he gave his Lord a proper burial and set the scene for the resurrection. The first witnesses The women had been serving Jesus and attending to his needs throughout his ministry (Luke 8:2,3), but now is the moment for their greatest act of service. Going to the tomb at the first opportunity (16:2), their eagerness to serve him led to the privilege of being the first witnesses of the resurrection. They must go and tell the disciples (v 7) the greatest news that they, that we, that the world will ever hear. It is a special act of restoring grace that Peter is mentioned by name. Respond: Consider what the Lord might be asking you to do today. Is it a difficult or unwelcome task? Reflect on your feelings about it. http://www.wordlive.org/Session/Classic/2012-04-07