Mark 15:43 “Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent council member, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, coming and taking courage, went in to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.”
We often forget that there were those among the Jewish leaders who did approve of Christ. Joseph was assisted by Nicodemus. These men may have known others who were sympathetic to the cause of Christ, but who wouldn’t make it public as did these two.
We have to ask ourselves, what level of devotion to Christ is acceptable? Many have derided Joseph of Arimathea for not doing more. But, this was quite a great service which he rendered for our Lord. Jesus had many followers, not all were the twelve. Should we settle for only sympathetic assistance rather than heartfelt cooperation? No. But, we must all follow the way the Lord lays before us. Sometimes it is very helpful to have a Joseph on hand when he is needed.
Heavenly Father, may our devotion to You be truly genuine! You deserve our best efforts to do our best the best way we know how. And it’s all through Christ. Only by Him can we hope to do anything. Thank You for strength in Him! In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.