The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

THE STONE AND THE PIT

When the Medo-Persian Empire toppled the Babylonian Empire and King Darius reigned, Daniel — who had served under Babylon’s defeated King Nebuchadnezzar — rose in the government ranks, which made other officials jealous. Their devious plot to bolster the king’s self-image and entrap Daniel is well known — as is their fate when God intervened to save Daniel from the lions.

This episode points to Jesus. Like Daniel, Jesus was unjustly condemned by his enemies. The pagan ruler, Pontius Pilate, though he knew Jesus was innocent, agreed to send him to his death. He was placed in a pit — a tomb — and had a sealed stone rolled over it. Both rose victoriously from the pit; however, Daniel didn’t experience death, and Jesus did. Daniel didn’t defeat death in his own power, but Jesus did. Daniel and Jesus were both faithful to God, but Jesus conquered death so that all believers can have victory over sin and death through him.

Jesus, thank you for Daniel’s example. Help me to be faithful, strong and courageous for you, even to the point of death. I know that when I die, you will be on the other side. Amen.