We adore you O Christ, and we praise you,
because by your Holy Cross you have redeemed the world
Scripture:
Now, there was a good and righteous man named Joseph, who, though a member of the council had not agreed with their plan and action. He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea and he was waiting expectantly for the kingdom of God. This man went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then, he took it down, wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid it in a rock-hewn tomb where no one had been laid. (Luke 23:50 – 53)
Reflection:
Lord, you humbled yourself and willingly embraced the darkness. Darkness that we all fear. Darkness that is unknown to us. Darkness that ends life as we know. Death is complete surrender. One loses all control. And because of this, it will be up to others to take care of your body.
The good and just Joseph from the Jewish town of Arimathea, went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. He then took it down and wrapped it in a linen cloth. And laid it in a rock-hewn tomb where no one had been laid. Joseph who was a disciple of Jesus, owned a tomb nearby. A man-made cave which he offers to Mary. A burial chamber he has reserved for himself.
Thinking about it, If I place myself in Joseph’s shoes, would I do as he did? Would I willingly offer Mary the tomb I saved up for myself? Would I risk the wrath of Pilate to ask for Jesus’ body? And carefully take His body down and tenderly wrap it with the best fabric I can afford? Would I lay his body in the slab meant for myself?
I lay Jesus in my tomb. The tomb for my sins and futile attempts of doing God’s will. The tomb for my earthly words and deeds. I lay Jesus in the slab that is meant for me. I am letting you taking my place in my tomb.
Lord, I surrender my tomb to you. Come and take my place, Lord. I surrender all my efforts in following you. I surrender my abilities and disabilities, my weaknesses and strengths. I surrender my life. And I surrender my death to you, Lord. And in doing, I pray that Your resurrection may also be mine.