Digging Deeper: From Curious to Committed
Afterward Joseph of Arimathea, who had been a secret disciple of Jesus (because he feared the Jewish leaders), asked Pilate for permission to take down Jesus’ body. When Pilate gave permission, Joseph came and took the body away. 39 With him came Nicodemus, the man who had come to Jesus at night. He brought about seventy-five pounds of perfumed ointment made from myrrh and aloes. 40 Following Jewish burial custom, they wrapped Jesus’ body with the spices in long sheets of linen cloth. 41 The place of crucifixion was near a garden, where there was a new tomb, never used before. 42 And so, because it was the day of preparation for the Jewish Passover and since the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there.
John 19:38-42 (NLT)
FROM CURIOUS TO COMMITTED
Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a respected ruler, sought Jesus under the cloak of night. Fear and curiosity warred within him. He had witnessed Jesus’ miracles, heard His profound teachings, and felt a stirring in his soul. “How can these things be?” he questioned, grappling with the concept of being born again.
Jesus’ words, like seeds in fertile ground, began to sprout—though hidden from the harsh light of his peers’ judgment. The night symbolized his internal struggle, the wrestling between tradition and the allure of something new.
Time passed, and the seeds grew. When the Sanhedrin condemned Jesus, Nicodemus dared to speak—a flicker of defiance against the gathering darkness. His voice, though perhaps trembling, offered a defense, a plea for justice.
Then, at the foot of the cross, Nicodemus emerged fully into the light. With Joseph of Arimathea, he brought spices—a lavish display of devotion—and helped lay Jesus’ body in the tomb. The night’s uncertainty had yielded to the day’s boldness. Nicodemus’ journey from secret inquiry to a public act of faith was complete.
Reflection:
- In what ways is your faith becoming more public?
- What step can you take to move from curiosity to commitment?
Suggested Prayer:
Jesus, I don’t want to be a secret believer. Grant me the courage to follow You boldly and with joy. Amen.
Dr. Larry Grays is the father of four and lives in the Canton area. Larry consults with churches, schools, city governments, and businesses nationwide. He’s been a member of the NorthStar family for over 20 years.