Daily Bible Reading — Sustained By God’s Word Of HopeSample

  

April 20

Introduction

At noon, the sky turns dark. Three hours later, Jesus calls out to God and dies. Joseph of Arimathea asks for and receives the body of Jesus. He takes the body down from the cross, wraps it in linen, and places it in a newly hewn tomb. The women who had followed Jesus from Galilee see the tomb and how Jesus’s body is placed in it. They then return home to prepare the spices and perfumes for the body. 

Today’s Scripture: Luke 23:46a (GNT)

Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Father! Into your hands I place my spirit!” 

Today’s Reading 

Luke 23:44-56

Reflect

After witnessing the death of Jesus, why did the army officer praise God (verse 47)? Joseph from Arimathea came from a small village in the hilly area called Ephraim, which was about twenty miles northwest of Jerusalem. He was a respected member of the Jewish council, so he risked his reputation by helping to give Jesus a proper burial. What might have given Joseph the courage to retrieve Jesus’s body? What gives you courage to stand for your beliefs?

Pray

Holy Jesus, you faced death on a cross to share God’s love, forgiveness, and salvation with all people. Grant me the courage to live in faith and bring your peace and justice to the world. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Those observing Easter vigils

Tomorrow’s Reading

Luke 24:1-12: Jesus is raised to life.