Read:
John 19:16-42
The
crucifixion was designed to inflict as much lingering pain and agony as
possible. Pilate ordered a placard
attached to the cross, written in three languages. The caption said, “Jesus of Nazareth, the
King of the Jews” (v. 19). The Jews took
offense to this and asked for a change in the wording but Pilate refused (v.
21-22). John records two events that
took place at the foot of the cross.
First, the dividing of Christ`s clothing which is a fulfillment of Psalm
22:18. John next records a compassionate
transferal of care for Christ’s mother into the hands of the disciple whom
Jesus loved (v. 25-27). John also
records three important events that happened at the cross. Jesus cry, “I am thirsty” (v. 28) was a
fulfillment of Psalm 69:21. His final
cry, “it is finished” (v. 30), was an acknowledgement that He had accomplished
His full work, the work He willingly accomplished in obedience to the
Father. Finally, the unbroken bones and
the sword thrust into His side were a fulfillments of O.T. prophecy (Ex. 12:46,
Num. 9:12, Psalm 34:20, Zech. 12:10). John
then describes a lavish burial by a secret disciple, Joseph of Arimathea,
assisted by Nicodemus (see John 3) which was according to Jewish custom. It is interesting to note that none of Jesus
12 disciples took part in the burial.
JOURNALING AND PRAYER
1. Read Isaiah 53 and John 19:16-30. Take a moment to reflect upon these
verses. What are five things that you
can worship Jesus for today, from these verses?
Take a moment to write a prayer of thanksgiving, worship and praise to
Jesus for dying for you. Tell Him that
you love Him and commit yourself to following Him wholeheartedly.
2. In Jewish law, touching a dead body caused
ceremonial uncleanness for seven days.
When Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus prepared Jesus for burial they
became ceremonially unclean and therefore unable to participate in the Passover
(the biggest Jewish festival of the year).
They both had been secret followers of Jesus but this action shows their
belief and understanding of the significance of what had just occurred. They gave up the celebration of the Passover
to care for their Lord and honor Him.
Ask the Lord to show you some of the things that you have given up for
Him. Then ask Him to show you what else
you can give up for Him, out of love for Him and His Kingdom.
