Courage & Conviction

Mark 15:43
"Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent member of the Council, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body."

What courage and conviction! It took tremendous bravery for Joseph to step forward and oppose his fellow council (Sanhedrin) members. This was more than a kind act toward a kind man, this was a public act of descent toward the group he swore allegiance to. This was rebellion against the highest religious authority in his world. By going to Pilate for the body, Joseph was publicly casting a vote of innocence for Jesus and declaring that the high priests and other members were wrong. He was identifying with Jesus.
Where did this conviction come from? I think the answer is found in the statement that he "was himself waiting for the kingdom of God." Unlike the others, power and authority had not blinded Joseph view of Scripture or of the Messiah. His desire for the kingdom of God was greater than his desire for his own kingdom and prominence. When Jesus arrived, Joseph was not only able to understand the fulfillment of prophesy, but also able to participate in the fulfillment of it.

Father - may I come to know Scripture and Your will so clearly that I may courageously stand up and speak out even against my own. Give me a kingdom desire and conviction that lead me to boldness and resolve in the face of opposition. Amen.