The Breath of Lentਨਮੂਨਾ

Jesus’ body is now lifeless, and a tomb to place His body has been provided by Joseph of Arimathea and embalming spices by Nicodemus. Both men were highly respected Jewish leaders who felt an indescribable attraction to the teaching of Jesus. These men have often been described as “secret disciples.”

An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which terms are contradictory. “Secret disciples” perfectly fits the description of an oxymoron. A disciple is someone who passionately follows and lives the teachings of His master. To be a disciple of a rabbi is to be an unapologetic devotee. Therefore, a disciple cannot keep their allegiance under wraps and experience the full effects of the teachings of their master.

Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus are to be applauded for their care and attention to the body of Jesus. They felt the heart of the Saviour yet never lived that love out loud. Of what were they afraid? Loss of prestige? Loss of position?

We can learn from their story. Half-hearted discipleship is a lose-lose situation. There are those who may never hear of the love of the Lord if kept under wraps, and the fearful follower will lose out on the joy of fulfilling their mission of spreading Jesus’ message.

May today’s breath prayer be a proclamation of our love and faith in Jesus, the Saviour of the world.

Inhale: Help me live out loud,

Exhale: you are my Lord and Saviour.