“The next morning, when the Sabbath ended, Mary Magdalene and Salome and Mary the mother of James went out and purchased spices to put on Jesus’ body” (Mark 16:1).
I can imagine they’d made plans as to what time to meet. They’d predetermined a location to gather. There’s a very good chance, they’d already made a list as to what spices were needed—and quite possibly, which shop had the best buy on them.
I can see, in my mind, the ladies carrying their bag of embalming spices gingerly to the cemetery, honored to do what was needed, anxious to enter the tomb.
I can also see a small bag of spices lying uncared for on the ground after they find the tomb empty. Tossed aside as they see the linens lying asunder on the death bed. Unnecessary and unused.
The thing is, when Jesus is involved, plans are sometimes thrown out the door. You may be preparing for a day filled with the same old, same old; have you asked Jesus into your plans? You might be figuring on the same aches, pains and heartbreaks that you were plagued with yesterday; have you given those plans to Jesus? You just might be making arrangements for just another service tomorrow morning; have you mentioned those plans to Jesus? Go ahead, make your plans but don’t be surprised when Jesus steps in and all plans are canceled and greater plans are set in to motion.
Malinda Edgell
Illinois
PRAY TOGETHER: “Count Your Blessings.” Praise God today for His numerous blessings; ask Him to encourage discouraged pastors.
