Saturday 4 April 2026
- Bible Book:
- John
Nicodemus, who had at first come to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, weighing about a hundred pounds. (v. 39)
Background
Two representative disciples, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, attend to Jesus’ burial. This is the first time we hear about Joseph so the author explains that, for fear of the Judeans, this disciple was a 'secret' disciple. It seems that Joseph was of sufficient importance to be able to ask Pilate for Jesus' body and to have the request granted. Joseph is accompanied by the scribal Pharisee and teacher, Nicodemus, whom we first hear about when he comes surreptitiously, at night, to interview Jesus (John 3:1-15). Both these disciples are being very bold. Perhaps it is easier for them now that Jesus is dead. Being associated with an executed felon is potentially less risky than when Jesus was alive.
It is worth noting that Nicodemus brings with him enough embalming material for a royal funeral! It seems that at the end Nicodemus is convinced that Jesus is worthy of the deepest honour and respect. He and Joseph prepare Jesus’ body in the Judean manner and place him in a brand-new tomb that is untouched by any other dead person. They do this in haste because at sundown the Passover Sabbath begins and all work must cease.
Today is known as Holy Saturday and is possibly the most difficult day in the Christian calendar. Nothing happens. After all the tension and excitement of Holy Week, the disciples met for what turned out to be their last meal together. They accompanied Jesus to the garden where he prayed. Then he was arrested, put through the mockery of a trial and dragged off to the Roman governor Pontius Pilate. He was flogged, sentenced to death and executed. It all happened in less than 24 hours. Then nothing happens. It is the Jewish Sabbath and there is no choice other than to wait, and watch, and wonder.
To Ponder:
- I wonder what is was like for those disciples who had hoped for so much and then saw their hopes so shamefully destroyed? Have you ever been in a situation where your expectations have been crushed? What helped you cope?
- There is such an expectation of immediate gratification in our society that we find ‘waiting’ difficult. Have there been occasions for you when having to wait has actually been beneficial? What did you learn from that experience?
Prayer
God of eternity, help us to wait with hope in our hearts, and to watch without fear, and to always have a sense of wonder. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Dr Sheryl Anderson
Sheryl is a supernumerary presbyter in the West Herts and Borders Circuit. In retirement she continues to preach and be a supervisor. She is also learning to keep bees.