Mark 15:33-41: Darkness, Death, and Devotion

This passage in Mark’s Gospel brings us to the heart of Jesus’ crucifixion. It’s a scene filled with darkness, despair, and ultimately, divine revelation.

What Happened?

• Darkness: At noon, darkness covered the whole land for three hours. This wasn’t a natural eclipse; it was a supernatural sign of the spiritual weight of what was happening.
• Jesus’ Cry: Jesus cried out, quoting Psalm 22: “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” This is a cry of deep anguish, expressing the separation from God that Jesus experienced as he bore the sins of the world.
• Misunderstanding: Some onlookers misunderstood, thinking he was calling for Elijah.
• Death: Jesus uttered a loud cry and breathed his last. The curtain in the temple, separating the Holy of Holies from the rest of the temple, was torn in two from top to bottom. This symbolised the opening of access to God for all people through Jesus’ sacrifice.
• Centurion’s Declaration: A Roman centurion, witnessing these events, declared, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”
• Women Witnesses: Several women who had followed Jesus from Galilee, including Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and Salome, were watching from a distance.

Why is this Important?

• Jesus’ Suffering: Jesus’ crucifixion wasn’t just a physical death. It was a spiritual and emotional torment as he took on the burden of sin. His cry of forsakenness shows the depth of his sacrifice.
• Access to God: The tearing of the temple curtain signifies that through Jesus’ death, the barrier between humanity and God has been removed. We can now approach God directly.
• Witness and Declaration: Even amidst darkness and despair, there were witnesses. The centurion’s declaration, though likely based on limited understanding, highlights the impact of Jesus’ death. The women’s presence underscores their faithfulness and foreshadows their role in witnessing the resurrection.

Questions for Reflection

1. What emotions do you feel when you read about Jesus’ suffering on the cross?
2. Why do you think the darkness covered the land? What might it symbolize?
3. How does Jesus’ cry of forsakenness affect your understanding of his sacrifice?
4. What does the tearing of the temple curtain mean for us today?
5. What can we learn from the women who remained faithful to Jesus even in his darkest hour?
6. How does this passage challenge or encourage you in your own faith journey?

Challenge

Take some time this week to reflect on the depth of Jesus’ sacrifice for you. Consider how his death and resurrection have opened the way for you to have a relationship with God. Express your gratitude to Him for his love and grace.