Trivia
TRIVIA for FUN
Who asked Pontius Pilate for Jesus’s body after the crucifixion?
- Peter
- Mary Magdalene
- Nicodemus
- Joseph of Arimathea
Answer: D) Joseph of Arimathea
Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy man and an ardent follower of Christ, asked Pilate for permission to bury Jesus. With the help of Nicodemus, he removed Christ from the cross, prepared His body for burial and laid Him to rest in a well-hidden tomb. Three days later, Christ rose from the grave and revealed Himself to Mary Magdalene.
Biblical Biography
Joseph
The Book of Genesis offers a particularly strong illustration of the importance of compassion. It tells the story of Joseph, a man who famously chose forgiveness over revenge.
Joseph was an interpreter of dreams, and was the favorite of his father’s 12 sons. His brothers were deeply jealous of him, and, after several years of quiet resentment, they sold him into slavery in Egypt, telling their father he was dead. Joseph faced a great deal of persecution at the hands of the Egyptians, and very nearly lost his life. But through it all, he held fast to his integrity and remained faithful to God. After several years in bondage, Joseph gained favor with his captors, and became the second most powerful man in Egypt.
At the same time, his family fled to Egypt to escape a famine in their homeland. Instead of turning his brothers away, Joseph welcomed them into his home and promised them security. If Joseph could show compassion to the men who stole his freedom and left him for dead, shouldn’t we be able to forgive the people who treat us badly? Jesus has granted each of us divine mercy, and it’s our responsibility to share that mercy with others.
(Cutline) Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery in Egypt.
What Does it Mean?
Forgiveness
The action or process of forgiving or being forgiven.
In Ephesians 4:32, the Apostle Paul writes, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you.” The act of forgiveness goes against our basic human instincts, but we are called to cast resentment aside and follow the example of Jesus. He died on the cross to free each of us from our transgressions, and we should pardon those who sin against us.
Compassion
Sympathetic pity or concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others.
Christ spent his time on earth showing compassion to those who needed it most. He dined with thieves, ministered to prostitutes and laid hands on the fatally ill. Jesus never turned anyone away because of their sin or situation, but instead, touched them with patience and love.
Resurrection
The process of being restored to life.
The Christian faith is based on the belief that Jesus died for the sins of mankind, was buried and rose from the dead three days later. His resurrection represents the greatest sacrifice the universe has ever known. The Easter Season is dedicated to Christ’s restoration to life, and reminds us to celebrate His victory over death.
