Mark 15: 42-47 New Living Translation 42 This all happened on Friday, the day of preparation, the day before the Sabbath. As evening approached, 43 Joseph of Arimathea took a risk and went to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. (Joseph was an honored member of the high council, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come.)44 Pilate couldn’t believe that Jesus was already dead, so he called for the Roman officer and asked if he had died yet.45 The officer confirmed that Jesus was dead, so Pilate told Joseph he could have the body. 46 Joseph bought a long sheet of linen cloth. Then he took Jesus’ body down from the cross, wrapped it in the cloth, and laid it in a tomb that had been carved out of the rock. Then he rolled a stone in front of the entrance. 47 Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joseph saw where Jesus’ body was laid. Looking back I don't believe I've ever had the honor or being a pallbearer [those who carry the coffin]. l've been to plenty of funerals and have watched how carefullly they handle the body of the one they loved. The Romans obviously didn't care about those they crucified, they must have seen Jesus as just another criminal or troublemaker.
For Joseph of Arimathea to ask for Jesus' body took bold trust for a least two reasons. 1. Joseph was an honored member of the high council, so this would have exposed him to the council as one who believed in Jesus as the Messiah of Isreal. Mark tell us that Joseph, "was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come." This should remind us that those who follow Jesus will be made evident by what they do. James, the half brother of Jesus, models this truth for us as well, "I will show you my faith by my works." James 2:18b 2. Joseph was also exposing himself to the Romans as a Jesus follower and this could have had consequeces as well. At this time Jesus' own disciples who had spend their days and nights with Jesus for the past three years were nowhere to be found, except for John who was with Jesus' mother. Being a follower of Jesus isn't always fun and games with comfy rooms, powerpoint and worship songs to sing along with. Sometimes Jesus leads us into a place that is very uncomfortable and even painful, where we must learn to be bold and trust Him in way that we never had to before.
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