Heroes: Devotions From Time of Grace MinistrySample

COURAGE: NICODEMUS

Nicodemus must have worked long and hard for his position in Jewish society's elite. He was a member of the sect of the Pharisees – an exclusive club of religious achievers who had also made it financially. They thought personal wealth was a necessary "proof" of God's favor. Membership was not hereditary – you had to earn your way in. Even better – Nicodemus was a member of the supreme ruling council, the Sanhedrin.

Jesus' words and teachings had the ring of truth that Nicodemus realized he had been missing all his life. His first conversation with Jesus had to be clandestine so that he would not lose his position in the social register. Likely he watched in silence on the night of Jesus' "trial" as his proud Council became nothing more than a show, a kangaroo court, which spent hours bribing witnesses to support a predetermined verdict.

But then he said, "Enough." He decided to out himself as a follower of Jesus. "With Pilate's permission, he [Joseph of Arimathea] came and took the body away. He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds" (John 19:38-39).

Myrrh was usually bought and sold in small vials. Seventy-five pounds was worth a king's ransom. Though Jesus had been executed like a criminal, Nicodemus wanted him to be buried like a king. Nicodemus is a hero of mine. He reminds me of whose approval I need most.

What holds you back from more public loyalty to Jesus?