Matthew 27:57-61

As evening approached, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who had himself become a disciple of Jesus. 58 Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body, and Pilate ordered that it be given to him. 59 Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away. 61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb. - Matthew 27:57-61

Dear Jesus,

In Isaiah 53 you had him prophecy that although you would be killed with the wicked, you would be buried with the rich in your death. No one could have guessed how it would all come true. Joseph of Arimathea made happen. He was a member of the council that condemned you but he was not in compliance with them. By handling your body he became unclean and could not celebrate the rest of the Passover festivities. He was outed by his faith filled actions. His life would never be the same but somehow I think it was just fine with him. He believed in you and had peace of mind and singularity of heart. He was a Christian sharing in the hope of eternal life. He didn't really know you wouldn't need his grave very long. I wonder how he ever looked at his family grave the same. His bones are buried there somewhere from where yours arose. Thank you for leading him to fulfill Scripture and for giving Matthew the wisdom to tell us about it. In this Holy week, give me the brave and loving faith of Joseph so I will unashamedly show my devotion to you in any circumstance.

Amen

Pastor Don Patterson

Faith is like electricity. It cannot help but generate power in a person's life.

Additional Reading: Romans 10