Have you ever noticed how God used people we do not know to do great things? We know very little about Joseph of Arimathea other than he was a member of the Sanhedrin (The ruling religious body of the day), was a rich man, and was from Arimathea. The region of Arimathea is unknown, but is traditionally identified with several hill towns near Jerusalem. Interestingly, some traditions say that he was the uncle of Jesus’ mom, Mary, and therefore, the uncle of Jesus. Yet that cannot be substantiated by any external source. What we know is that this was a man, who was destined to be reported of in all four gospels for his part in the death of the Messiah. This is a reminder to us that, God uses the unknown to do fulfill His purposes. What does that mean for us? That means that the circumstances of our lives have a greater purpose than filling up time. God is working in our lives in a way that we may not realize, and preparing us to impact the lives of many directly or indirectly. Joseph of Aramathea, did not choose to bury Jesus in his tomb, in order to fulfill prophecy, but his act did just that! As we follow the Lord in our lives, and make choices designed to honor God, we have no idea the full impact of our choices. All we want to do is please the Lord. We are reminded in Hebrews 12:6 “Without faith it is impossible to please [God], for he who comes to God must believe that He [God] is and that He [God] is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him [God].” This passage tells us that we can please God if we do what we do with faith believing that God will use our efforts to enhance His kingdom. I don’t have to have my name in the lights for all to see. It is enough that God knows, and will see, and respond accordingly.
