March 31

Introduction

Mark 16:1–20: Mark’s account of Jesus’s resurrection is often referred to as an empty-tomb story because of the way it ends at verse 8, with the empty tomb being the proof of Jesus’s resurrection. Many scholars believe that the longer ending was added in the late second or early third century A.D. In today’s reading, several women go to the tomb to anoint Jesus’s body. When they arrive, a messenger tells them that Jesus has been raised to life. According to the additional ending, Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene and to his followers. Jesus tells his disciples what they must do, and he is then taken up to heaven.

Today’s Key Verse: Mark 16:6b

[The young man said to the women:] “I know you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is not here—He has been raised! Look, here is the place where He was placed.”

Reflect

What were the women at the tomb told to do? How does verse 8 describe what they were feeling? What are your thoughts about Mark’s Gospel ending at verse 8? Verses 9–11 recount Jesus’s appearance to Mary Magdalene. When she told the disciples that Jesus was alive, why didn’t they believe her? If you were among the disciples, what might your reaction have been to such news? What instructions did Jesus give his followers? What will you do today to show others that you are a follower of and believer in Jesus? What message will you proclaim?

Pray

Alleluia! Lord Jesus, you are alive forevermore! The good news of your resurrection fills my heart with joy! Alleluia! Alleluia! Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

John 20:1–18: Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene.

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Congratulations on completing this reading plan! You may continue your journey with Daily Bible Reading by starting the plan: “God’s Guiding Word: Hope.”Tomorrow’s reading will be John 20:1-18: Mary and the disciples find Jesus's tomb empty.