Buried

42It was Preparation Day (that is, the day before the Sabbath). So as evening approached, 43Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. 44Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead. Summoning the centurion, he asked him if Jesus had already died. 45When he learned from the centurion that it was so, he gave the body to Joseph. 46So Joseph bought some linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb cut out of rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb.47Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph saw where he was laid. (Mark 15)

Thoughts: There were some things about this burial that make it certain, assure that Jesus was really dead, and point to the resurrection.  The timing was specific- the day before the Sabbath at evening.  The person who did the burial was a man of integrity and a member of the Sanhedrin.  He went to Pilate, who approved of the burial.  Pilate certified Jesus' death- by professional executors (vs. 44).  Joseph wrapped the body and rolled tomb over the entrance.  
    Jesus really was dead.  This makes the resurrection that much more amazing.  Burial also is the next step to being forgotten.  Jesus was not dead and gone.  He would come back.  Death did not have power over Jesus, but neither did the tomb.  

Prayer: Lord, give me hope.  Help me to understand and listen to your power to overcome death, the tomb, and all evil.