There are so many key individuals involved in Jesus’ death and burial. In addition to Pilate and the leading priests who squabbled over the charges, there were the soldiers, Jesus’ faithful women followers, the disciple Jesus loved, Joseph of Arimathea, and Nicodemus. Each one was used by God to play a role in how Jesus’ mission on earth ended.
It’s also amazing to see how Jesus, in his agony after being beaten and carrying his own heavy cross, was still fulfilling prophecy to the bitter end. He also connected his mother with his dear disciple, establishing a means of care for her. In his final moments, Jesus was still caring for his loved ones.
Whether this was your first time reading about Jesus’ death or the hundredth, what was most striking to you? Each gospel tells of Jesus death a little bit differently, but one thing they all have in common is Joseph of Arimathea. What John doesn’t tell us is that Joseph was a wealthy, well-respected member of the Sanhedrin. The Sanhedrin was the supreme council of Jewish leaders, including the High Priest, who handled religious, political, and legal matters.
Joseph had been secretly following Jesus, along with Nicodemus, a Pharisee. They would have been risking everything in terms of their positions to show their allegiance to Jesus. Perhaps it could be argued that caring for Jesus’ dead body didn’t mean they believed Jesus’ claim to be King of the Jews or the Son of God.
In any event, what struck me was their devotion and attention to detail. These men wanted to make sure Jesus’ burial was proper according to Jewish law and not an afterthought. At least in death, Jesus’ body was treated with respect and honor. Little did they know how short Jesus would actually be physically present in that tomb (but let’s not jump ahead in the story).
Jesus had died; more accurately, he had been tortured and killed. We can’t help but be moved by his sacrifice and how barbaric being crucified was. That’s my other takeaway. Jesus had predicted it, as had the prophets of old. No wonder he had been so distraught by what was coming. The events of this day did not come as a surprise to Jesus or to those who were familiar with the prophetic messages about the Messiah.
Joseph and Nicodemus would not have been blinded to that truth like the other religious leaders. They had stepped up to bring honor to Jesus’ broken body. Good thing, because it doesn’t sound like the disciples had made any plans in that regard. God had chosen Joseph and Nicodemus for this moment.
God has a special mission for each of us, too. The more we get to know Jesus by reading the accounts of his life and reflecting on how all of Scripture points to Jesus in some fashion, our own purpose is revealed. Take time today to consider how you can tell Jesus’ story to others, sharing how he has made a difference in your life.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, I am beyond moved by what you endured for me on the cross. You knew what was coming, but you faced it because of your great love for me. I am forever grateful for your grace, which has endured my guilt and shame. Help me to be a good witness to your love and desire for this world. Use me like you did Joseph and Nicodemus to honor and bless your name. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
