Scripture:
Mark 15:43 – Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself looking for the kingdom of God, took courage and went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.
Observation:
Joseph of Arimathea was seeking the kingdom of God. Joseph was courageous and put kingdom work above his own safety. Jesus was crucified, dead and buried in an identifiable tomb cut into rock.
Application:
I need to be seeking Jesus and the kingdom of God. When pursuing the kingdom of God, it will be countercultural to the norm of the world. Therefore, I can expect resistance and need to rely on the power of the Holy Spirit to give me strength and encouragement. Joseph of Arimathea sought the kingdom of God without knowing how the story would end but be the greatest beginning the world has ever known! It is not a small fact to be overlooked that Jesus was buried. Jesus overcame the grave and defeated sin/death so that we can have a relationship with the Father.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for your love, grace and mercy in Jesus’ atoning death for mankind. Help me to live a life to seek your kingdom. Let the power of the Holy Spirit give me strength and courage to follow you.