#46: Easter Saturday, 20 April 2019

**Luke 23:50-56**

Easter Saturday lacks a proper designation -- perhaps it should be called Bleak Saturday. Unlike modern readers who anticipate Easter Sunday's celebrations, the people in Luke's narrative face only despair. Their hoped-for Messiah is dead and buried. They witnessed his crucifixion and watched Joseph of Arimathea place him in a tomb with a stone rolled across the entrance.

Luke omits details of this day because "nothing happened." As a historian, he records only significant events. The disciples and followers experience profound emptiness and cold isolation, having lost their central figure and source of hope.

However, Luke provides crucial context about Joseph of Arimathea. Joseph served on the Council that condemned Jesus, yet he dissented from their decision and refused to support the subsequent action. This distinction matters greatly.

Luke emphasizes that Joseph possessed moral courage. Rather than accepting the majority decision and moving forward, he took the dangerous step of approaching Pilate directly to request Jesus' body. This action risked his safety, family, business, and reputation. Pilate could have arrested or killed him for this audacious request.

Joseph's conduct reflects deep conviction and earnest courage grounded in Old Testament understanding. Joshua 1:9 speaks of being strong and courageous, trusting God's presence.

Joseph's action represents the holiest and most courageous action that anyone performed, after Jesus' death and before his resurrection. He serves as an example for all who serve on committees and councils, demonstrating the importance of standing for righteousness and truth, even when costly and unpopular.

**Prayer:**

Lord Jesus Christ, grant me the courage of Joseph of Arimathea. When I face moments of moral testing, help me to stand for what is right, even at personal cost. Help me to be strong and courageous, trusting in your presence. Amen.