Join us to go through Jesus’ journey to the cross as we prepare for Easter this year! Our theme this year, “Redeemed”, reminds us of the truth that through the cross and His resurrection, we are delivered, restored, and made new. Once lost, we are now found – redeemed and chosen by His grace.
Luke 23:50-56 ESV
50 Now there was a man named Joseph, from the Jewish town of Arimathea. He was a member of the council, a good and righteous man, 51 who had not consented to their decision and action; and he was looking for the kingdom of God. 52 This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 53 Then he took it down and wrapped it in a linen shroud and laid him in a tomb cut in stone, where no one had ever yet been laid. 54 It was the day of Preparation, and the Sabbath was beginning. 55 The women who had come with him from Galilee followed and saw the tomb and how his body was laid. 56 Then they returned and prepared spices and ointments.On the Sabbath they rested according to the commandment.
How was Good Friday for you yesterday? For some of us, it might not feel new; instead, it serves as a heartfelt reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice. For others, it could be an eye-opening experience. Whether it stirs up sorrow and mourning for His suffering, prompts us to reflect on our sins and seek true repentance, or builds anticipation for the joy of Easter, it’s essential for us to pause and reflect.
When someone passes away, being present during the mourning can speak louder than words. Family dynamics often surface, highlighting the complexities of relationships. In the wake of loss, we recognize the lasting impact of the deceased, inspiring others to continue their legacy. Jesus’ death was witnessed by many, including His disciples and closest followers (Luke 23:49). Among the many, there were still those who cared for Jesus after His death, one such believer, Joseph of Arimathea, who was an influential Pharisee. Even at risk of his reputation, Joseph along with another fellow Pharisee Nicodemus, wrapped Jesus’ body in linen and spices and took care of it to honor Him (John 19:40). Meanwhile, other Pharisees remained fearful, concerned that the disciples might deceive others by taking Jesus’ body (Matthew 27:64). They relied on the tomb’s stone, Roman guards, and a wax seal to maintain their authority and counter Jesus’ influence.
For Joseph and Nicodemus, Jesus was a holy Messiah worthy of respect, while the other Pharisees viewed Him as a threat to their authority. This prompts us to reflect on our own perspective of Jesus: Is He our Lord and Saviour whom we want to respect and honour at all times, in life and death, with everything that we have? Or, is He a threat to our desire for control over our own lives and for worldly power? Many of us may struggle with competing desires that prevent us from experiencing the true redemption He offers.
Let’s continue to reflect and prepare our hearts for Easter! May we find strength and trust that, even in moments of silence and uncertainty, God is at work and faithful!
Reflection and Application
- What legacy do you want to leave in your faith journey? Consider how your actions can inspire others and build up your community, just as Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus honored Jesus after His death.
- Who is someone you feel led to invite to Easter Celebration this year? Have you invited them? Take a moment to pray for them, asking God to open their heart to the invitation and to prepare their spirit for the experience.
Prayer Requests
HKBU:
- Evangelism: For salvations and Gospel transformations in our members and the unreached on our campus, and for God to bring in the next generation of committed members, especially brothers.
- Discipleship: For God to multiply disciples and disciple-makers to strengthen Christ-centered discipleship relationships and friendships.
- Deeper Community: To deepen our community through growing our personal relationship and intimacy with God.
Click here for full devotional link and for PDF version