Joseph of Arimathea, a respected council member, asks Pilate for Jesus’s body.

This marks a transition from Jesus’s humiliation to his exaltation. Even in death, he receives honor through a proper burial in a rich man’s tomb.

Joseph represents faithful belief transcending social status.

He’s not just a poor outcast following Jesus, but a wealthy, respected leader who risks everything.

This demonstrates that Jesus calls the faithful regardless of their social position. The measure isn’t deeds but faith alone.

The expensive tomb fulfills Isaiah 53’s prophecy about being “buried with the rich.”

The Resurrection Account (Mark 16:1-8)

Mark’s resurrection narrative seems to deliberately end with fear and confusion.

The women find the empty tomb, encounter an angel who proclaims Christ’s resurrection, and flee in terror, saying nothing to anyone.

This ending troubled many, but it may serve Mark’s purpose.

The Gospel concludes not with triumphant disciples but with frightened, confused followers. Yet Christ is still risen.

Hope doesn’t depend on our understanding or perfect faith response.

Mark writes for Christians facing persecution and doubt, reminding them that the only question that matters is: “Is Christ still risen?”

If suffering, sin, or fear could put Jesus back in the tomb, we’d have reason to panic. But since Christ remains risen, that’s enough.

The angel specifically mentions telling “the disciples and Peter.” This acknowledges Peter’s particularly difficult weekend but ensures he hears the good news.

Easter isn’t about our perfect response but about Christ’s perfect victory.

Whether we feel triumphant or struggle with doubt, Christ is risen, and that’s sufficient.

Contributor Rev. Harrison Goodman is the Higher Things Executive Director of Missions and Theology.

Contributor Eli Lietzau is the pastor at Wheat Ridge Evangelical Lutheran Church in Wheat Ridge, CO.

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