Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus were drawn to the Christ and drawn together to take care of the Lord’s body. It appears Jesus had not drawn them so openly as much in His life as He did in His death!
Though the cross drew onlookers, not all viewed the spectacle from the same perspective. The Jewish leaders may have walked away thinking their problem was solved; they were rid of this one they viewed as a blasphemer (Matthew 26:65; John 10:33; John 19:7) and was seen to potentially place their position and nation in jeopardy. (John 11:47-48) Others walked away with a sense of lost hope. (i.e. Luke 23:48; 24:21) Still others walked away with a new conviction such as the believing centurion. (Matthew 27:54; Mark 15:39; Luke 23:47)
Remember that Jesus Himself had earlier noted the draw of the cross where we read. . .
“(32) And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” (33) He said this to show by what kind of death he was going to die.” (John 12:32-33 ESV)
With Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, we see the magnet of the cross had begun its work! They had reached a point when they could be secret disciples no more and being drawn to the cross they encouraged each other in an act of loving service together. Perhaps they are an example of it being better to be a timid disciple than not one at all! However, in their stepping forward at the death of Jesus, their connection with the Lord was exposed in the requesting of His body and in the laying of it to rest. Timid faith was growing bolder!
Are we continuing to be duly drawn, not merely to the spectacle of the cross, but to the Lord of the cross and to humbly following in His servant steps living to His glory and praise?
Paul stated. . .
“(14) For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; (15) and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised.” (2 Corinthians 5:14-15 ESV)
To be duly drawn to the cross means to no longer be living for ourselves, but for He Who died for us! This is the mark of discipleship; to be willing to deny self, take up our cross daily, and following Jesus! (Luke 9:23) May we therefore remain “dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus” (Romans 6:11) as we continue being drawn Heavenward in Him!
Have a great day LIVING TO MAKE OUR CHRIST CONNECTION MORE AND MORE EVIDENT!
Carl
