Mark records nine times when Jesus explained to his disciples that he would be arrested, tried, crucified and then raise from the dead the third day.

The accounts tell us that the disciples discussed Jesus’ statements among themselves. At one point they agreed that if he was going to die they would die with him.

Witnesses testified of Jesus' claim to “raise the temple after three days”. The Sanhedrin understood his claim to be resurrected. This is precisely why they requested guards from Pilate to make the tomb secure (Matthew 27:62-66).

But no one was at the tomb awaiting Jesus’ resurrection. None of the apostles were there. Not even John, the apostle “whom Jesus loved”. Not the impetuous Peter who was willing to fight and die for his Lord in the garden. Several women came to the tomb but only to further prepare his body for burial.

Had they believed his claims we would have seen evidence of it. They would have waited patiently but expectantly for the third day. They would have been ready to happily receive him back from the dead.

But Jesus said he would return one last time. What evidence is there that you and I wait patiently yet expectantly for his return? Think about it! Encourage others to prepare for his return! Speak of it often with our family and with fellow disciples!

As Peter asked regarding the Lord’s final coming:

“…what sort of people ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be destroyed by burning, and the elements will melt with intense heat! But according to His promise we are looking for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells.” 2nd Peter 3:11-13