Preparation in the Tomb

Yesterday, Good Friday Services were held around the globe commemorating the crucifixion, death and burial of Jesus Christ.  But what happened between the crucifixion, burial and resurrection?  On my walk today the Holy Spirit kept impressing upon me the word preparation.  Scripture reveals spices and oils were prepared (100 pounds of aloes and myrrh) and used to anoint Jesus’ body and then it was wrapped in linen and laid in the tomb. In the ancient world, spices were expensive and highly valued. They were used to anoint kings.  The extract from aloe leaves was one of the two spices used to bury Jesus, according to John 19:39. The spices were wrapped with strips of linen around Jesus up to his head. Myrrh and frankincense were given to Jesus at his birth by the Wise Men from the East as gifts to celebrate his life. Frankincense was a highly aromatic spice used to anoint priests and kings, given to Jesus as a sign of respect for his role as “King of kings”. Of all spices, myrrh played the largest role in Jesus’ life. Given to him at his birth and used to anoint his body at his death. Spices Used to Bury Jesus | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/list_7331845_spices-used-bury-jesus.html#ixzz2P3rp4lMh
Here’s the meaning I received.  Our preparation in the tomb (darkness) begins when we die to the past through forgiveness and obedience, submit to the will of the Father, and anoint ourselves with His oil and spices.  

Preparation:  The tomb was already prepared.

Preparation:  The women and others prepared the oils and spices.

Preparation:  God prepared to save the us through the crucifixion, burial and resurrection of Christ.   

Preparation cleanses us for ministry.  We rise up, and give evidence of the hope we have in Jesus Christ.  It is in our preparation that we can walk through the valley of the shadow of death and experience mercy and grace which  follows us all the days of our lives, and we DWELL in the House of the Lord. (Psalm 23)  Preparation results in power, and provision. 

As we await the celebration of the Risen Christ on Resurrection Sunday, applaud now for the preparation in the tomb.  For the model of how to arise victoriously is in the preparation.