It was the Sabbath. The religious leaders were on a mission to make sure that the tomb Jesus was in was secure. Would they have thought it wrong to be “working” on the Sabbath? They always gave Jesus a hard time with that. What did you think about their request?
It was interesting that they remembered what Jesus had said about what would happen in three days. Why were they so concerned? Did they secretly believe that Jesus would actually come back to life?
If the tomb was properly sealed, then the body could not be stolen by his followers. Of course, the religious leaders were covering their butts. They figured that if Jesus said it, the disciples would make sure it came true. However, those followers were probably still in hiding themselves thinking their lives were also at risk.
Clearly, the religious leaders were still fearful. They knew in their hearts that Jesus was a force to be reckoned with. They were blinded to the fact they had just had the Son of God killed. I wonder why they thought it would be worse if he returned from the dead. Did they think he would be seeking revenge on his accusers? What do you think?
The fact that Matthew includes this in his gospel speaks to the fears going on. Matthew wants us to know that the tomb was secure. There was no way that anybody could have gotten in and stolen the body. It is actually a good thing for us believers. There can be no question.
Something big is about to happen. The stage is set.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for how you have used all the players of this story. We know there is only one way to be truly secure, and that is to follow you. My future is sure when I trust in you. May I never forget that. Help me to share your message with all those who need to hear it. Use my feeble attempts to make your message known. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
