Our Hearts Burn Within Us预览

Between Devastation & Deliverance

In the somber aftermath of Christ’s crucifixion, we encounter a profound act of courage and devotion that often goes overlooked in the Easter narrative. Luke tells us of Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the council who, despite the political and social risks, “went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus.” This righteous man, who had been waiting for the kingdom of God, chose this critical moment to step out of the shadows of secret discipleship into the light of public devotion to Christ.

The passage paints a picture of careful, reverent preparation as Jesus’ body is taken down from the cross, wrapped in linen, and laid in a new tomb cut in rock. The women who had followed Jesus from Galilee watched these proceedings with careful attention, then hurried to prepare spices and ointments before the Sabbath began. In their grief, they remained faithful to both their Lord and the law, resting on the Sabbath “according to the commandment.”

This seemingly quiet interlude between the drama of the crucifixion and the glory of the resurrection speaks volumes about faithful presence in moments of apparent defeat. While the disciples had scattered, these followers—Joseph and the women—remained steadfast, performing what they thought would be their last acts of service to the One they loved. They did not know the resurrection was coming; they simply acted out of devotion, doing what needed to be done in the face of what seemed like the end of all their hopes.

Their actions remind us that faithfulness often manifests in simple acts of service and patient waiting. Even when our world seems darkest and our hopes appear crushed, we are called to remain faithful, to continue in devotion, to do the next right thing. The very spices the women prepared would become unnecessary in light of the resurrection, yet their preparation was not wasted—it was a testament to their love and fidelity.

In our own lives, we too experience Holy Saturdays—times of waiting between devastation and deliverance. Like Joseph and the women, we are called to remain faithful in these intervals, trusting that God is at work even when all seems lost. Their story teaches us that courage and devotion often go hand in hand, and that true faithfulness sometimes means simply showing up and doing what needs to be done, even when we cannot see the purpose. This side of the cross, we know there is a purpose for our faithful obedience because our Savior lives.

Prayer

Lord of glory, in times of waiting and uncertainty, give us the courage of Joseph and the devotion of the women who remained faithful to Jesus even after His death. Help us to serve you faithfully in both great moments and small, trusting that you are always at work, even when we cannot see it. Grant us patient hearts that continue in love and service, knowing that you never abandon your people. May we, like those first followers, be found faithful in the intervals between cross and crown. In the name of Jesus, amen.