We adore You, O Christ, and bless You… because by Your holy Cross You have redeemed the world.
When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea named Joseph, who was himself a disciple of Jesus. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus; then Pilate ordered it to be handed over. Taking the body, Joseph wrapped it in clean linen and laid it in his new tomb that he had hewn in the rock. Then he rolled a huge stone across the entrance to the tomb and departed.
Matthew 27: 57-60
Joseph of Arimathea asked Pontius Pilate for the body of Jesus after his death on the cross, to give him a proper Jewish burial. Joseph even offered up his family tomb and linens.
Who was Joseph of Arimathea? All four gospels mention him. They tell us that he was a wealthy man, an elite and respected member of the Jewish council, and a secret follower of Jesus. He himself was looking for the Kingdom of God, and he did not consent to the council’s decision and actions in condemning Jesus.
Joseph risked everything to extend himself in this moment of compassion towards Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and his disciples… those in the midst of their great grief and pain. He risked his wealth, his influence with the Jewish Council, his reputation, and possibly even his life.
I reflect on my own moments of compassion towards others. Do I extend myself during these opportunities to show compassion? Am I willing to risk discomfort in my own life? Does it cost me anything to be compassionate to others? Do I desire to just “mind my own business,” not wanting to get involved? Or if I do extend compassion, is the cost to me actually pretty small?
Joseph of Arimathea displayed courage by publicly becoming a follower of Jesus and risking it all to show compassion towards those who loved Jesus. Lord, help me, give me the strength and courage to have this same kind of compassion for others in my own life.
Lord, grant us your compassion that we may always provide for those in need. Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory Be to the Father... Lord Jesus Christ, your passion and death is the sacrifice that unites heaven and earth, and reconciles all people to you. May we who have faithfully reflected on the mysteries of Your passion follow in your steps and so come to share your glory in heaven where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen. Lord Jesus Christ... crucified... have mercy on us. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
By Roberta Bacik
Retreat During Daily Life 