Back in the days when Western movies reigned supreme, each film had a classic duel. Flicks like Showdown at the Ok Corral highlight the typical gun fight in the center of town, usually at high noon. Not quite like the days of gladiators at the Roman Colosseum, these battles left the winner on both feet with the loser buried in the local cemetery. Thus, high noon was bright for the victor and dark for the family of the victim.
At noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, Mark 15:33.
According to Josephus, a first century historian, he refers to a cosmic event which coincides with the death of Jesus. Three other famous historians throughout the Middle East mention a dark noon, a global event where day turned to night. Although an exact time is not specified, John Mark claims this once in a life time event lasted three hours. Similar to westerns, following the duel between God and Satan, Jesus lost his life.
Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us, Romans 5:7-8.
However, this is not where the story ends. Though some theologians mention purgatory, a mythical place where Jesus spent time prior to his resurrection, many disagree. While this debate continues today, no one will know for sure until this question is answered in heaven. For now, the best thing to do is to keep watch, armed with the armor of God, Ephesians 6:12-20. Therefore, whether its high noon or midnight, be prepared for the attacks of the Devil.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 