Faces of the Cross (Part 3)
This painting shows Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy member of the Sanhedrin, taking Jesus’ dead body to a place of burial. In the first century, a public execution was not the end of humiliation for a condemned person. It was common for a dead body to be left on a cross to rot or to be eaten by birds or other animals. Also, the Roman law dictated the loss of all honor in an alleged criminal’s crucifixion. Thus, the right of a burial of any kind was determined by the governing authorities. When Joseph of Arimathea asked for Jesus’ body, he was actually risking his very life because he was associating himself with Jesus. Mark 15:42-46 says,
It was Preparation Day (that is, the day before the Sabbath). So as evening approached, Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. Pilate was surprised to hear that he was already dead. Summoning the centurion, he asked him if Jesus had already died. When he learned from the centurion that it was so, he gave the body to Joseph. So Joseph bought some linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb cut out of rock.
There is a short phrase in this passage that carries significant weight: went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. This was not only a bold move on Joseph’s part, but also a risky one that could have cost him his life. Joseph’s identification with Jesus was important enough for him to put his life on the line.
What “risky” and “bold” response to Jesus are you willing to make? In what areas are you being called to stick your neck out for your Savior?
Let’s live boldly!