Matthew 27:62-64
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
For the next two days we’ll consider the response of those responsible for the decisions that led to Jesus’ execution, so for the sake of context, we’ll include today’s reading with tomorrow’s. Read Matthew 27:62-64 noting anything that stands out to you.
It is the day of rest according to their Jewish laws, and yet these religious authorities gather to seek a meeting with the Roman governor. Add one more to the list of religious laws broken during Jesus’ arrest, trial and execution.
These leaders are driven, but devotion to God or even to their own religion doesn’t seem to be the source of their fervor.
Stop to consider that our deepest and most dearly held values and beliefs are only as true as our actions under pressure. Take a moment to let the example of the religious authorities sink in and then turn your thoughts into an honest discussion with Jesus.
Read Matthew 27:62-64 again.
They claim that Jesus was a deceiver, but these leaders are so concerned about Jesus’ promise to rise from the dead that they want the tomb sealed. Obviously they are not afraid of a few terrified disciples of Jesus who have now scattered and disappeared. These religious authorities remember what Jesus said and suspect it might be true. But their belief produces only fear.
Contrast this with the belief of Mary Magdalene and the “other Mary” who sat down to wait and watch for Jesus. Then take some time to contemplate these words from John 1:
“God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world.
Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love.” – 1 John 4:16-18.
Now get quiet and listen to Jesus.
What might Jesus want you to remember or do as a result of this time of meditation?
What do you plan to do about that?
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