SCRIPTURE: Mark 15:21-39
OBSERVATION:
That Mark mentions Alexander and Rufus suggests that he knew of them, possibly that they became Christ followers.
”Wine mixed with myrrh” was like a pain killer, this is why Jesus declined it.
”Cast lots”, probably a joke, was there much left of the clothes after his trial?
Those who mocked Jesus will one day regret their actions, especially the religious leaders.
Three hour darkness must have been very disturbing, was the Roman guard just one of many who had 2nd thoughts after what happened?
That the curtain tore must have upset the Jewish leaders, did they try to cover it up, how did word get out?
The curtain separated people from God’s most holy place in the temple, a sign that Jesus removes the barrier between God and us – sin and guilt.
APPLICATION:
I have never felt forsaken like this, but there are no doubt many who have, do they find comfort in this?
Try to imagine the testimony of Alexander and Rufus, seeing their dad carry Jesus’ cross.
How can people be so cruel, what would make people like this? Speaks of the violent twisted world we live in, and how violent and twisted our hearts can become?
It is comforting to know my sin and guilt no longer separate me from God, I can approach God with confidence because Jesus opened the way (Hebrews 10:19-22).
PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for loving me so much, and for choosing to save us from ourselves. Forgive us for when we can be cruel like this, and thank you for using even our cruelty to help others find their way to You! Amen.
The sign that was written over His head is a reminder that I must daily subject myself in Kingdom service. My testimony must also be like that of Thomas, My Lord and My God! The darkness over the land must have been eerie. Man commits many of his vile acts in the secrets of darkness even today. The trial was also in the cloak of darkness. No matter how hard we try to extinguish the Light, the Sonshine is always there. Some of the people did see God’s signs, the darkness, the tearing of the veil and believed.
Thank You Lord for the sacrifice of Your Son so I can live in His Sonshine every day. By Your Spirit, lead me and guide me so that I never will walk in darkness. Help me to shine like stars as I continue to live for Jesus, holding out the Word of Life (Philippians). May my song today and forever be . . .
Shout to the Lord, all the earth let us sing, Power and majesty, praise to the King!
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar, At the sound of your name!
I sing for joy at the work of your hands, Forever I’ll love you, forever I’ll stand
Nothing compares to the promise I have in You.