What Jesus Did! 'Laid to Rest' — John 19:41-42

Friday, December 9, 2022

The place of crucifixion was near a garden, where there was a new tomb, never used before. And so, because it was the day of preparation for the Jewish Passover and since the tomb was close at hand, [Joseph and Nicodemus] laid Jesus there.

Key Thought

There are few things harder than leaving the bodies of loved ones at their graves. Walking away leaves such a sense of finality and loss. Can you imagine the heartbreak of Joseph and Nicodemus as they left Jesus' body at this place of the dead? How many shattered dreams and hopes did they place in that tomb with the one they hoped was Israel's Savior? Gather it into your heart: Jesus died and was placed in a tomb! Jesus, who was God come in human flesh, allowed his body to be claimed by the mortality that will claim each of us. What unbelievable love for God to share our mortal plight in such a personal way in Jesus!

Today's Prayer

Thank you, dear God, that you would have Jesus actually die for my sins. The very thought of this boggles my mind and fills my heart with wonder and appreciation. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

5 Related Resources by Heartlight

Illustration

Illustration of John 19:41-42 NLT —  And so, because it was the day of preparation for the Jewish Passover and since the tomb was close at hand, [Joseph and Nicodemus] laid Jesus there.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Friday, December 9, 2022

A daily dose of Christian quotes to inspire and encourage.
"Drop the last year into the silent limbo of the past. Let it go, for it was imperfect, and thank God that it can go."
A daily devotional about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
"Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the....."
A daily devotional featuring a Bible verse, thought and prayer.
"In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.""
A daily devotional about God's power for our battles.
"Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer for ten days....."

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.