By Andrew Williams
As evening had already come, since it was the day of Preparation, that is, [the day] before the Sabbath, [Deut. 21:22, 23.] Joseph, he of Arimathea, noble and honorable in rank and a respected member of the council (Sanhedrin), who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, daring the consequences, took courage and ventured to go to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.
Mark 15:42-43 AMPC
Good morning fellow disciples.
It was the Sanhedrin that had condemned Jesus to death because of blasphemy. Joseph of Arimathea was a member of this Sanhedrin, but unlike some of the other members he was actually looking forward to the Messiah’s coming.
Joseph of Arimathea went to Pilate to ask for the body of Jesus even though he knew the consequences of this action:
1. It was preparation day for the Sabbath and if he touched a dead body, he would be unclean and would not be able to celebrate with the other Jews.
2. He could lose his place on the council. And,
3. He might be kicked out of the synagogue and be excommunicated.
Despite all this, he chose to go to Pilate so that he could get the body of Jesus to bury it.
What consequences do you face when you choose to serve and honor God?
Will you lose your family?
Will you lose your job?
Will you lose your position in the church?
Will you lose your life? {Pun intended}
Prayer: Father God, we thank You for Joseph of Arimathea. He showed us that no matter what position we have, we should honor You by doing what is right. We should risk the consequences to bring glory and honor to You. He has shown us that we should redirect our focus to doing Your will. Amen
