Joseph (Part 2) - Respect
| So Joseph bought some linen cloth, took down the body, wrapped it in the linen, and placed it in a tomb cut out of rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where he was laid. (Mark15:46-47) |
Yesterday we looked at Joseph's faith and courage.
Today I'd like to consider another driving force in his actions, namely respect.
Let's recap. Joseph
- takes a risk going to Pilate.
- probably jeopardises his standing with the Council
- makes a sacrifice in offering up his expensive and elite tomb
Along with his faith and courage, Joseph is "doing right" by Jesus.
I think this shows respect.
There are moments of respect throughout the burial and resurrection.
- Nicodemus brings spices for the burial. He was also a member of the council.
- The women return after the Sabbath to complete the work of anointing Jesus
- Jesus folds His grave cloths when He rises from the dead.
- And Joseph does what he can to give Jesus a dignified burial
Respect is important.
It speaks of the intrinsic value of people, and in this narrative, it reminds us that Jesus was respected even by some of those who would have been considered His enemies.
When we love God, we also love people.
But we also respect God and respect people.
Joseph shows it towards Jesus, as do Nicodemus and the women.
Jesus shows it towards Joseph and whoever will tidy the tomb.
In a world filled with disrespect - where people are celebrated for "dissing" (disrespecting) others, this is an important insight.
