And Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a clean linen shroud.
– Matthew 27:59

Isn’t it amazing how names pop up in the New Testament at crucial times only to disappear forever in the fog of history? One such name is Joseph (No, not Mary’s husband, although he, too, seemed to disappear).

The cumulative picture from the Gospels is that this Joseph was a “rich man from Arimathea” (v. 57). Along with his colleague Nicodemus, Joseph was a “respected member of the Council”, although it is clear that neither of them supported condemning Jesus to death.

Mark’s Gospel describes Joseph as a “looking for the kingdom of God” (15:43). Luke calls him a “good and righteous man” (23:52) and John adds the thought that he was a “disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews” (19:38).

Wouldn’t you like to know how, when, and where he became a disciple? Wouldn’t you like to know what happened to him after he donated his new tomb (Mt. 27:60)? What was his reaction when he learned that Jesus only needed his burial spot for three days? How did he get the news? Was he part of the five hundred brothers whom St. Paul says witnessed the living and resurrected Jesus?

We’ll never know, because he doesn’t get mentioned in the book of Acts, the history of the early Church. What we do know is that his gift to Jesus of his new tomb was an act of courage. He overcame whatever fear he had to do this loving act. He was willing to risk his reputation, his high position, and even his wealth. Like another Joseph (aka Barnabas – Acts 4:36), he used what he had to offer it as a gift to Jesus. May his tribe increase!

Prayer: Lord, may we be willing to use what you have already given to us for the benefit of Your Kingdom and the growth of Your Church.

Daily Reading: Matthew 28

– Contributed by Rev. Paul Peckman