Station 7 

      Jesus is placed in the tomb

Luke 23: 50-53 Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph, who, though a member of the council, had not agreed to 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 ever been laid.

We Remember the Cross of Jesus

Death without burial was the intended end for the crucified criminal, clinching his worthlessness as a human being. Joseph of Arimathea, then, shows courage in approaching Pilot for permission to bury Jesus. He shows tenderness in preparing Jesus’ body with aloe, myrrh, and linens. And he shows respect in laying Jesus to rest quickly, as was the Jewish custom.  This man about whom we know so little teaches us so much about being devoted to Jesus.

We Name the Crosses of Today

There are many people who feel worthless today. Jesus showed us that everyone is precious to God and Joseph of Arimathea lived out Jesus calling to us all, to treat every person with the respect and care they deserve. Are we strong enough, courageous enough and faithful enough to see all people as Jesus sees them?

We Pray

 Jesus, by your Spirit may we, like Joseph, 
show our devotion to you through courage, 
respect and tenderness.  
And may we, like Joseph, teach others to do the same. 
Kindle in our hearts fervent devotion to you. Amen.