Mark, the shortest gospel, concisely set out the basic facts surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion. Judas offered to betray Jesus for money, and Jesus’ enemies were delighted to accept his offer. And Judas kept his disloyal, deadly promise. Joseph, described as a man who “eagerly anticipated the coming of God’s kingdom,” stepped up after Jesus died, and provided a tomb for his body.

• We often read or speak about “the Twelve.” Jesus had more than twelve followers—Luke 10 said that he sent out at least 70. But Mark (like all four gospels) specifies that Judas was “one of the Twelve,” because “the Twelve” were the ones closest to Jesus. Have you ever been tempted to betray someone who trusted you? If so, how did you deal with the situation? Have you ever felt betrayed by someone you trusted?

• We will learn more about “Joseph from Arimathea” in the other three gospels. One key characteristic stands out in Mark’s account. The Romans usually left crucified bodies exposed to the birds and the weather, as a warning to others. Mark said Joseph “dared to approach Pilate and ask for Jesus’ body.” What do you believe it took for this “prominent council member” to publicly associate himself with the executed Jesus?

From Grow . Pray . Study, The Church of the Resurrection--Weekly Guide