“They Took the Body of Jesus”
Seeking Jesus First - August 19, 2026
“They Took the Body of Jesus”
Please Read John 19:38–42 (NKJV)
Reflection
After this, Joseph of Arimathea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus; and Pilate gave him permission. So he came and took the body of Jesus. And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury. Now in the place where He was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb in which no one had yet been laid. So there they laid Jesus, because of the Jews’ Preparation Day, for the tomb was nearby.
Joseph of Arimathea had been a secret disciple, afraid of the Jews. Nicodemus had first come to Jesus under the cover of night. Yet when Jesus was dead and the cost of association was highest, both men stepped forward. They no longer remained in the shadows. They asked for the body, provided the costly spices, and carefully prepared Him for burial according to Jewish custom. They placed Him in a new tomb in a garden — a tomb that had never been used.
John notes that this was the Preparation Day, and the coming Sabbath was a high day (John 19:31) — the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread. Jesus was crucified on the day the Passover lambs were slain, before that high Sabbath began at evening. The public disciples had scattered. The secret disciples now came into the open. In the darkest hour, courage rose where fear had once ruled. Their act of devotion fulfilled the need for an honorable burial and prepared the stage for the empty tomb that would follow.
Application
Today, consider whether fear has kept you quiet or hidden in your devotion to Jesus. Joseph and Nicodemus show that it is never too late to step out of secrecy into open faithfulness.
Renew your mind with this truth: The same Lord who received their costly and courageous service receives yours. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you any place where fear has held you back. Choose today to step forward in loyalty to Jesus, even when it costs something. Faithfulness in the dark prepares the way for resurrection light.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who stepped forward when others had fled. Thank You that they honored the body of Jesus with courage and costly devotion. Forgive us for the times we have remained silent or hidden because of fear. Give us hearts that are willing to be identified with Jesus, even when it is costly. Help us to serve Him openly and faithfully. In Jesus’ name, giving thanks for the living Word of the Lord. Amen.