The Healing Jesus: An Advent Devotional to Encourage Anybody and Everybodyনমুনা

SALOME: THE ONE WHO BROUGHT BEAUTY

My name is Salome, which means peace. I think I got that name because I crave peace. I don't like noise or conflict. That is why witnessing Jesus's death was so awful. I know crucifixions happen, but I avoided them at all costs. If we walked by one in the distance, I would never look. I couldn't bear it.

I wanted to run away when I found myself at that horrid, detestable Golgotha. The disciples watched at a distance with us until it was clear Jesus was dying. Then they trickled off. After all, any men associated with Jesus might find themselves in jail or worse. But me and the other women were able to stay. Women could be there at the crucifixion because we presented no threat. Men made all public decisions. We may have been the backbone of the household, but outside our home, we were obsolete. But I wished I could leave with the disciples.

The night after Jesus died was the worst night of my life. Up until then, being around Jesus always gave me peace. But that peace was gone. I remember seeing Joseph preparing his body for burial. The men had to work quickly because of the Sabbath approaching. They were brisk and rough, with a ritual usually full of grace and thoughtfulness. It broke my heart.

I wanted to give Jesus the burial he deserved. We couldn't buy the spices until the Sabbath ended, so we went to the market the following evening. All the shops were open from 8 pm to midnight, so we could buy what we needed. But we would have to wait until Sunday morning to use them on Jesus. We were concerned about how we would move the stone, but I was determined to bring loveliness to an ugly situation.

Yes, I was bringing beauty, but not peace. You see, spices controlled the smell of decomposition, but I couldn't stop death. My hope was shattered. I thought I was bringing a final peace offering to Jesus, but he was about to restore peace in me. We didn't need the spices I got, and Hallelujah for that! The tomb was empty, and my Savior was alive!

Jesus is healing and will bring beauty out of ashes.

Questions for Talk it Over:

1. Why did the women wait to buy the spices?

2. What beauty have you seen come out of ashes?

3. How can you bring beauty to a dark situation right now?