We read today of Joseph’s, up to now perhaps, unseen courage
as he approaches Pilate to secure the release of Jesus’ body so that Christ
might be afforded a proper Jewish burial.
Accompanied by Nicodemus, Joseph takes Jesus’ body and has
it prepared for burial with an amount of herbs and spices equivalent to what
would have been the norm for a royal burial.
Joseph and Nicodemus, both members of the Sanhedrin, would
have found it difficult to publically support Jesus’ cause openly prior to his death.
However their tremendous courage and attention to detail demonstrate that they
were clearly aware of the significance of Jesus and wanted to bury him as
befitted a king, rather than leaving him out in the open to decay, as was often
the case with criminals that had been put to death by crucifixion.
This account really helps remind me that what Jesus
experienced was a real death that put an end to his earthly human existence.
We can probably all recall times when we’ve witnessed
injustice or situations that have required someone to step in and stand up for
what is right. Joseph and Nicodemus
could well have been accused of being a day late, however we know that there
was a bigger picture at stake and that they did have the faith and courage to
secure Jesus’ body from Pilate when they could have easily just melted away
into the background. My prayer is that as we live with Christ’s amazing story
on our frontlines we can’t help but have that steadfast faith that displays
itself in a very natural way to others around us.
Response
Lord Jesus, you died
that I might live forever in your kingdom of peace and righteousness.
Strengthen my faith to know the power of your resurrection and to live in the
hope of seeing you face to face for ever.
James
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