Love That Risks Reputation – Love in the Wilderness
A quiet devotion on John 19:38-42 on loving in spite of opinions
Here is a devotion to start your day!
A spoken version of this devotion is available through the Still, Here audio reflections podcast.
Scripture: John 19:38–42
After these things, Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, asked of Pilate that he might take away Jesus’ body. Pilate gave him permission. He came therefore and took away his body. Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred Roman pounds. V. 38-39
Reflection
Joseph of Arimathea is a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews. Nicodemus came to Jesus by night. Two cautious men, moving in the shadows. After the crucifixion, something changes. Joseph goes boldly to Pilate and asks for Jesus’ body. Nicodemus brings a costly mixture of myrrh and aloes—about seventy-five pounds. Together, they wrap Jesus in linen with spices and lay Him in a new tomb.
When Jesus is alive and popular, they are quiet. When He is dead and disgraced, they step into the light. Their care is tender, reverent, lavish. They risk reputation, status, and safety to honor the broken body of the One they could not fully claim before.
Love in the wilderness sometimes ripens late. Our courage may lag behind our belief. Yet God is patient, and there are moments when grace invites us to finally move from secret sympathy to public devotion. Joseph and Nicodemus miss the chance to stand at the cross, but they do not miss the chance to serve at the tomb.
Where have you stayed safely in the shadows—afraid of what following Jesus might cost? Lent calls you toward a braver love, even if your yes comes later than you wish.
A Prayer of Presence
Jesus, patient with my hesitations,
Thank You for calling secret disciples into the light. Give me courage, like Joseph and Nicodemus, to risk my reputation when love requires it and to honor You openly with my life. – Amen
Practice for Today
Take one step, however small, to “come into the light” in your faith—mentioning Jesus in a conversation, sharing a scripture, or identifying yourself as a follower where you usually stay silent.
Consider This...
Where have fear of others’ opinions or desire for safety kept me from openly aligning myself with Jesus?
Carry This Prayer With You
Breathe in: Bring my hidden love…
Breathe out: … into the light
This work is freely shared. If it nourishes your life with God, you’re welcome to help sustain it.