Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from the Judean town of Arimathea, and he himself was waiting for the kingdom of God. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body. Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin. The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.

Joseph was a Jewish leader and a brave one. He did not agree with the Council’s condemnation of Jesus. He also now stands up to get Jesus’ body and bury it in his tomb. I can only imagine the resistance, threats and ridicule he faced. I wonder if he had thought: Why am I, one of the only true followers of God, on this Council? What good can I do, I am just one man?

It turns out, God used him to bury Jesus and provide a tomb for him. What an honor!

I think of some of the situations I have found myself in, and so many things are unjust or unfair and life doesn’t seem to make sense. I must remember that God still has a plan. He is still watching over me. And he will use me in his plan, according to his will.

I also find it interesting that it was the women who did not leave Jesus but were at the cross and now at the burial. They were loyal followers. They empathized with him and loved him dearly. These “motherly” ladies were, guaranteed, a big encouragement to him. And these types of women are to us today.

Lord, thank you for “motherly” ladies who come alongside in times of heartache. They are saints! Thank you also for the faithful men like Joseph. They are the ones who are used by you for important tasks in your grand plan.