Mark 15:42-47

Find a way to separate yourself from whatever’s going on around you so you can fully enter into today’s passage. if you haven’t read the introduction to Mark’s Gospel, read it here.

Read Mark 15:42-47 paying close attention to two of the characters: Joseph of Arimathea and Mary Magdalene.

Joseph of Arimathea was part of the religious establishment. We know from Luke’s Gospel that he was part of the Sanhedrin, the high council that called for the crucifixion of Jesus, but we also know from Luke’s Gospel that Joseph opposed the council’s decision. Now he takes another even greater risk in asking Pilate for the body of Jesus.

But like the scribe in in Mark 12:28-34, Joseph is still waiting for the Kingdom of God.

He must have sensed that there was something extraordinary about Jesus, but whatever was stirring inside Joseph, it wasn’t enough for him to recognize that the Kingdom of God had come in Jesus, and it wasn’t enough for him to refuse to benefit from a system that had become corrupt and oppressive.

Mary Magdalene, on the other hand, had been completely transformed by a relationship with Jesus. Jesus released her from the bondage of demonic possession (Luke 8:2) and gave her clarity of mind and purpose. Mary knew the power of the Kingdom of God first-hand and she knew in whom that power resided. She would follow Jesus anywhere day or night and would freely acknowledge him as her Lord and Savior.

Read Mark 15:42-47 again slowly and thoughtfully.

When it comes to your relationship with Jesus and your commitment to him, do you identify more with Joseph of Arimathea or with Mary Magdalene?

Is there anything in your life over which you feel completely helpless?

Consider for a moment that Mary Magdalene was utterly helpless until she encountered Jesus and completely committed to him after he rescued her and set her free. How might an admission of helplessness bring you to a new level of relationship with Jesus?

Take a few moments to talk with Jesus about these questions and your answers. Then get still for a moment and listen.

Is there something Jesus is inviting you to do as a result of your time with him today? If so, take a step right now.

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