Scripture

The Roman officer and other soldiers at the crucifixion were terrified by the earthquake and all that happened. They said, “This man truly was the Son of God.”

Observation

At noon darkness falls over the land. At three Jesus cries out to God, “Why have you abandoned me?” Then Jesus shouts again and releases His spirit.

The veil in the Temple is torn in two, the earth shakes and dead people come out of their tombs and enter the city.

The Roman soldiers are shaken by all they have seen and declare, “This man truly was the Son of God.”

Joseph of Arimathea goes to Pilate and requests Jesus’ body, which he places in his own new tomb. The tomb is sealed and guards placed in front of it to ensure that there is no fake resurrection.

Application

The Roman soldiers, the people responsible for the death of Jesus, are the first to declare that He is the Son of God.

Jesus’ death was not an accident and it was not a tragedy. It was God’s plan all along from the beginning of creation.

God knew that we needed a saviour so He sent His one and only Son to come and die for the redemption of our sins.

Jesus’ death is the sacrifice that God decreed would be enough to save anyone who will receive it.

Prayer

Thank you Jesus for dying for me. Help me to live for you. Amen.