John 19:31-42 The New Creation Is Done

The Jews just couldn't have the nastiness of three dead bodies outside their capital city during the major religious holy day of the year, so they went back to Pilate and asked that their deaths be hastened by breaking the legs of those being crucified.  Pilate agreed and the Roman soldiers followed their orders on the other two men, then noticed that Jesus had already died.  He had dismissed His Spirit, because the bones of the Passover Lamb were not to be broken.

"The Roman soldiers did not do what they were commanded to do -- break the victim's legs -- but they did do what they were not supposed to do -- pierce the Savior's side!  In both matters, they fulfilled the very Word of God! ... Our Lord's bones were protected by the Lord.  His side was to be pierced ..."

Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea got permission to care for Jesus' body.  They also had somehow gathered 75 pounds of spices to be used when the body was wrapped in linen cloth.  A newly-hewn tomb had also been secured.  These two men had been secret disciples, yet they now stepped up and did what others may have been too afraid to do, with no fear of their fellow Jewish authorities.

"The Sabbath was about to dawn.  Jesus had finished the work of the "new creation", and now He would rest," my commentary said.

Father, I can't imagine the bleakest day in human history!  Thank You for going through it all for us!  Such love!

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford