1. The Lord's death (33-41)

The darkness that came over the whole land from noon until three was a testimony of the judgment that God was pouring out upon Jesus for the sin of the world. This was the cup that he prayed about in the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus was abandoned by man and separated from God. In his anguish, he cried out "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" Soon after that, his suffering was complete. Jesus drank the vinegar that was offered to him and breathed his last. At that moment, the temple curtain was torn in two, illustrating what his death had accomplished. Now that our debt of sin has been paid in full, we may freely enter the presence of the Father and find forgiveness, peace, and eternal life. The women who had followed Jesus were faithful to the end and witnessed everything that took place.

2. Jesus was buried (42-47)

Joseph was different than the other members of the Council. He was waiting for the kingdom of God and had become a follower of Jesus. He went to Pilate and boldly claimed the Lord's body. Wrapping it in linen, he placed it in a tomb. No doubt, Joseph was moved by Christ's death on the cross. The expression of God's love in the cross of Jesus leads us to follow him, love him, and live for him. The women saw where Jesus was laid so they could return later.