John 19: 40. 40 Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs.
Both the OT and Gospel readings were full of bad news today. Jeremiah has failed to alert God's people to the need to change their ways. And Jesus is crucified and dies. Then along came Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. Joseph has used his position to get Jesus's body. The men bring what is needed, and they prepare the body for burial, leaving it in a tomb belonging to Joseph.
I like the image of these faithful followers, working so hard to honor their fallen leader. Joseph is clearly a man of thought, and he has considered what should be done. Nicodemus brings the necessary materials. Together they prove their faithfulness. Would I have done the same?
Prayer: Lord, I want to believe that I would have stood by Your son to the end, like Joseph and Nicodemus. I know all that he endured for me. Yet I suspect that I, like Peter, would have been more likely to cut and run rather than to finish the dirty business of preparing his body in an honorable way. Please forgive me when I take the easy way out. I will try to be a better servant.
Amen
No comments:
Post a Comment