Wednesday, November 15, 2023

Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby.

John 19:40-42

Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea were New Testament figures. Nicodemus was a leader of the Jews – a member of the Sanhedrin, the ruling body of the Jews. This Pharisee, like his cohorts, upheld the letter of the law and opposed Jesus’ ministry. The book of John reports that Nicodemus went to speak with Jesus by night to converse with him. Some scholars speculate that he may have been afraid or ashamed to visit Jesus in broad daylight. Then, as a member of the Jewish ruling council, it was his responsibility to find out about any teachers or other public figures who might lead the people astray.

Nicodemus is mentioned again in the 19th chapter of John when he and Joseph of Arimathea work together to bury Jesus. The latter was rich and also a member of the Sanhedrin. John 19:38 reads, “After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus.” It is written that Nicodemus, who was also rich, brought 75 pounds of spice (a mixture of myrrh and aloe) to prepare the body.

The times during which we live and the circumstances under which we operate sometimes require our giving to be done behind the scenes. Apparently, these two disciples – Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea – loved the Lord. And when it was time to demonstrate that love, they stepped up to the plate. Joseph laid Jesus in his own tomb and Nicodemus helped.

PRAYER: Father, thank you for these two men who sought you in the middle of opposition. Show me where I can take the lead and where I can serve in a helping role as I seek ways to support your kingdom. In the name of Jesus, I ask these things and give you praise. Amen.