Saturday evening, when the Sabbath ended, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome went out and purchased burial spices so they could anoint Jesus’ body. Very early on Sunday morning, just at sunrise, they went to the tomb.
Key Thought
This passage is filled with anticipation for those of us who live on this side of Jesus’ resurrection. However, try to imagine what it was like for those women who had supported Jesus with their funds, had honored him with their discipleship, and were broken-hearted because of his death! Their walk to the tomb was an act of love and faithfulness. In the slowly gathering light of the early morning, their walk would have been a walk of agony and deep grief. Despite the danger of being identified with Jesus, despite the heaviness of their hearts, and despite the early hour of their walk to the tomb, these women still came to honor Christ. What excuse do you and I have for not coming to honor him? As we approach our times together with other Christians who assemble to honor Jesus, let’s do so with anticipation, not gloom. “The LORD’s Day” is not only the day these women met the resurrected Jesus; [1] it is also our primary day of assembling to remember Jesus and his birth, life, death, burial, and resurrection. Let’s approach this day with anticipation and joy in our hearts!
Today’s Prayer
Father, make my heart glad to be with your people and meet the resurrected Jesus when we assemble in his name. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Related Scripture Readings
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