And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus. — John 19:38

The power of the Cross is revealed in the lives of these two men, neither of whom fully exemplified discipleship during Jesus’ ministry. Now that he has died, they ensure that he is given a proper burial, making themselves unclean for the Passover and demonstrating their loyalty to the Lord at the worst possible time. When nothing else could, the Cross touched them, just as it has touched us!

 

Thought

The power of the Cross is revealed in the lives of these two men, neither of whom fully exemplified discipleship during Jesus’ ministry. Now that he has died, they ensure that he is given a proper burial, making themselves unclean for the Passover and demonstrating their loyalty to the Lord at the worst possible time. When nothing else could, the Cross touched them, just as it has touched us!

 

Prayer

Father of the Faithful, I was aware that the cross was a cruel sign of being afflicted. It is both valuable and brutal to me, as beautiful as it is repulsive. As a result of your sacrifice on the Cross, you have delivered me from my sin and demonstrated your love for me. Thank you! I beg you to praise you and the incredible gift you gave on Calvary in some little manner via the use of my life. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.