COURAGE IN CHAOS
Read: John 19:38-42 + Matthew 27:62-66

The day between the crucifixion and resurrection is always an odd one to consider. Friday is the darkest day in history but Saturday had to feel pretty dark as well.

Today’s scripture reading shows two distinctly different reactions to the moments after Jesus’s death. In John 19 we see how Joseph and Nicodemus ask Pilate for the permission to prepare and bury Jesus’s body. In Matthew 27 we see the Pharisees and chief priests ask Pilate for extra security measures around Jesus’s tomb.

How we respond to the cross during life’s darkest moments really matters.

The Pharisees respond with fear and self preservation. They don’t want to be proved wrong or made to look like fools. They step in with man made effort and try to white knuckle their will into reality.

Joseph and Nicodemus respond with love and courage. They must have been scared. They had to be confused. But instead of hiding or hoping, they said “what can we do to honor and serve our Lord?”

How often does our faith get challenged and we default to fear and self preservation. We may pray for help but if we’re honest we often rely on ourselves to get through hard seasons. White knuckling the few things we have control of and hoping for the best.

It’s hard to think of a bigger blow to faith than seeing the one you believe to be the promised Messiah breathe his final breath on the cross. The disciples identity is thrown into total chaos. But in the midst of chaos, Joseph and Nicodemus choose courage. Even with a shaken faith they chose to follow Jesus’s example by doing something humble, sacrificial, surrendered, and full of love.

So where do you find yourself today?

How do you sense your spirit responding to the cross of Jesus?

How do you see yourself responding to the darkness in and around your own life?

Our Saturday can look a lot different than the disciples because we have the benefit of knowing what happens on Sunday. May today be a day of gratitude for Christ’s incredible sacrifice on the cross. May today be a day where we ask how we can love and serve our Lord. May today be a day full of courage and expectation for what’s coming tomorrow!

Reflection Questions:
How does the story of Joseph and Nicodemus inspire, encourage, or challenge you?
What is one area of your life that you could use a little courage today?

Prayer Prompt:
Spend time praying that God would give you courage in any situation that may feel chaotic. Thank him for the gift of salvation and that He never leaves us in dark moments. Ask God to prepare your heart for tomorrow and pray that the gospel message of Jesus is received by many people this Easter.