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John 19:38-40

John 19:38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus– but secretly because of his fear of the Jews– asked Pilate that he might remove Jesus’s body. Pilate gave him permission; so he came and took his body away.

John 19:39 Nicodemus (who had previously come to him at night) also came, presenting a mixture of one hundred litras¹ of myrrh and aloes.

John 19:40 They took Jesus’s body and wrapped it in linen cloths with the fragrant spices, according to the burial custom of the Jews.

from the background

The appearance of Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea at the end of John’s Gospel is striking precisely because they have been so quiet throughout the story. Nicodemus appears early, coming to Jesus at night with questions he is afraid to ask in daylight. Joseph appears not at all until this moment. Neither man travels with Jesus, preaches publicly, or stands beside Him during the trial. They are not part of the inner circle, nor do they seem to play any visible role in the unfolding ministry.

Yet when the disciples have scattered, when the crowds have vanished, and when Jesus’ body hangs lifeless on the cross, these two men step forward. They do not perform miracles, preach sermons, or confront authorities. They simply take responsibility for the body of the Lord. They offer dignity when others offered mockery. They provide care when others fled in fear. Their task is not glamorous, but it is necessary. Their courage is quiet, but it is real.

This is one of the Gospel’s gentle reminders that God’s work is not carried only by the visible leaders or the outspoken disciples. Much of His work is carried by those who remain in the background until the moment comes when faithfulness is required. Nicodemus and Joseph were not central figures in the narrative, but they were essential in the moment God had prepared for them. Their devotion was not measured by public recognition but by obedience when the opportunity arose.

For anyone who wonders about purpose, these men offer a comforting truth. Not every calling is dramatic. Not every mission is public. Some roles are hidden until the right moment, and some tasks are small in the eyes of the world but precious in the eyes of God. Faithfulness is not measured by visibility but by readiness. When the time came, Nicodemus and Joseph stepped into the place God had prepared for them.

Their story also reflects the nature of the church. The body of Christ is sustained by countless acts of unseen service—quiet faithfulness, unnoticed generosity, steady devotion. God delights in using those who are willing, whether their role is large or small, public or hidden.

Lord, we are at Your service. Use us as You see fit, and make us ready for the moments You appoint.