Afterward Joseph of Arimathea, who had been a secret disciple of Jesus (because he feared the Jewish leaders), asked Pilate for permission to take down Jesus’ body. When Pilate gave permission, Joseph came and took the body away. / John 19:38 NLT
Once he followed Jesus from a distance. Joseph indeed followed Jesus in secrecy because he was never made known to us until this moment. But it was a remarkable moment nonetheless. For in the four gospels he is painted as one emerging from his place of secrecy into broad daylight. "Joseph ... asked Pilate for permission to take down Jesus' body." For Joseph, what Jesus did on the cross for him now outshone his hesitation to be associated with Him. For Joseph, it was better late than never, to announce his allegiance before the world. Love, once again and ever shall, conquer Fear.
What could it mean to be a secret disciple? But in fact we all share his reluctance to be seen with Jesus. In our infantile regard for ourselves we are much concerned of what people will say have they known our association with this Carpenter's Son. And moreover, our own weaknesses and struggles betray us of our so called allegiance. But in our betrayal, "while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Who could ever resist His unconditional love? When we spat at Him, He called us friends. Such extravagant Love is too beautiful to just be hidden. And once more He says, "You are the Light of the world."
Let it be known to you that your resistance only makes Him pursue you even more. May you surrender once more to this Love. May you let this Love drown out your fears. May you stand shoulder to shoulder, never ashamed, with the One whose hands are pierced.
The Mind of the Melancholeric Man: Musings on Life and Ministry by Patrick Tan