Bold

Meditation
Mark 15:43--Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Sanhedrin who was himself looking forward to the kingdom of God, came and boldly went in to Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body.
 
It was an amazingly gutsy move.  Jesus was crucified through the persistent efforts of the religious leaders determined to rid the earth of the Messiah.  At the worst possible time to identify with the slain Savior, Joseph courageously went to the Roman ruler Pilate and asked for Jesus’ body. Surprised that Jesus was already dead, Pilate gave His corpse to Joseph who promptly went out and bought linen in which to wrap His body before placing Him in the tomb he owned.  

Joseph’s bold move was remarkable because Jesus was dead.  The logical and safe action was to do nothing. His act of respect put his prominent membership in the Sanhedrin at risk. They could have run him out for being a traitor, ruined his reputation and made his life hell.  Evidently, Joseph was far more interested in doing what was right—honoring the life of the Lamb. His actions were particularly notable considering the eleven disciples were hiding! Why didn’t one of them go to Pilate? 

It is dangerous to be bold.  Those who dare to speak up for what they believe and who live in obedience to God’s will invite hostile opposition.  Jack Phillips refused to decorate a cake for a homosexual wedding.  The Colorado Civil Rights Commission went after him as a discriminator.  They dishonored his religious convictions. Jack faced the loss of his business and suffered threats against himself and his family.  Even after the Supreme Court ruled in his favor, the state attorney general, Cynthia Coffman introduced another lawsuit against him.  Intolerance continues to believe that a godly opinion must always be crucified.

Throughout much of history it was illegal to be a Christian and often those who proclaimed Christ could expect martyrdom. In spite of his afflictions and before he was martyred, the Apostle Paul reminded the church, “In Him we have boldness and confident access through faith in Him”—Ephesians 3:12.  The author of Hebrews wrote,“Therefore, we may boldly say: The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?”--Hebrews 13:6. 

Are you bold?  Are you willing to die for what you live for or would you rather blend into the fabric of society and just make the cake?  The things we choose to fear cost us from enjoying the abundant life God promises. Life is not deprived by suffering it is enhanced.  When the Holy Spirit is able to work through us because we are unafraid of what others may think, say or do, that is when we experience victory. We experience the greatest joy and fulfillment when we stand in the Light as opposed to sitting in the dark.  So be daring and audacious for Jesus’ sake! 
 
Inspiration
Boldness is a key in life.—Robert KayanjainThe Holy Spirit
 
©2017 Daniel York  ARR. Reveration is the weekly devotional ministry of First Cause.  If you would like to receive these devotionals go to www.firstcause.org and click on the “Click here to receive weekly devotionals” box.  Unlimited permission to copy this devotional without altering text or profiteering is allowed subject to inclusion of this copyright notice.      
 
Ecclesiastes 12:10-The Teacher sought to find delightful sayings and to accurately write words of truth.  (Holman CSB)