Uncertain Time in the Bible: Death of Jesus

We are living in a very uncertain time at the moment. We have a pandemic affecting the entire world. My mind thought to other uncertain times we find in the Bible, as well as promises and revelations of hope. So, let’s take a look at some of these, beginning with the most uncertain time of all for the world, but not for God.

For three years the disciples walked with Jesus, during which time they witnessed numerous miracles and heard Jesus teaching and parables. The disciples even believed him to be the son of God {Matthew 14:33}.

Time after time, Jesus foretold of his suffering and death, but he also told them on the third day he would rise. Still, the disciples did not understand.  It wasn’t their fault they didn’t understand.

“The disciples did not understand any of this. Its meaning was hidden from them, and they did not know what he was talking about.”  {Luke 18:34}

The disciples were present when Jesus was arrested and then they scattered away.  Only John and the women stood by the cross while Jesus was crucified.

However, knowing Peter and the disciples, I wouldn’t doubt they were hidden somewhere in the countryside watching what was going on, albeit from a safe distance.

Around noon that day, the sun stopped shining over the whole land. The temple curtain was torn from the top to the bottom and Jesus said “It is finished”.  {Luke 23:44-46}. The earth shook, rocks broke free and tombs were broke open. {Matthew 27:51-52}

We don’t know anything about how the disciples and women celebrated the Sabbath. The only clue scripture provides is “But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.”  {Luke 23:56}

Imagine how heavy their hearts were. They probably gathered, even if in small groups, in disbelief of what happened.

We can imagine they relived the last week, and especially last day, in their minds time and time again. Their hearts were heavy and they did not understand what happened.

Putting ourselves in their shoes, we can imagine a feeling of loss. What next?  They believed Jesus to be the son of God, but he was dead. Their hearts mourned as they asked “how did this happen” and “what now”?

Little did they know hope was on the horizon and joy comes in the morning.