Ladies Who Broke The Law

It's nearing Easter...and I am beginning to meditate on Jesus' journey to the cross and the grave, which proceeded His resurrection.  I knew there were 3 women (Mary, Jesus' mother; Mary Magdelene, whom Jesus delivered of 7 demons; and Mary, the wife of Clopas) who faithfully stayed by His side and sat at the foot of the cross 'til He was carried to the grave....then, the next day, Mary Magdelene and one of the other Mary's even went to the tomb to anoint Him with spices (for burial).

What I didn't know is that these ladies all broke the law!  It was unlawful to publically mourn for criminals sentenced to death.  Also, public lamenting was usually done by hired mourners.  However, these women sidestepped tradition and the law of that day.

By going to Jesus' grave to anoint His body, the women may have risked further legal trouble with the Romans.  Jesus was crucified as a criminal; therefore, He was not to be buried with honor.  Mary Magdelene and one of the other Mary's went anyway to the tomb.  The soldiers could have arrested them, but such was not the case.

As a hospice chaplain I learned that it is one of the most "sacred" services you could render--to sit with one who is dying.  These women sat with Jesus as He was dying on the cross.  Setting with the dying is not easy, but it is an honor--it is such a testimony of friendship, loyalty, and love.

These women knew the surpassing reward of sharing in "the fellowship of His sufferings." 
I read this quote the other day:  "Friendship isn't about who you have known the longest...it's about those who came and never left your side."

(Question:  How many of us would be willing to go with Jesus all the way as did these 3 women?)