How can we emulate Joseph's example of service in our daily lives? Verse in Focus “Matthew 27:57: ‘When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea, named Joseph, who himself had also become a disciple of Jesus.’” Snapshot of Joseph’s Moment of Service • Asked Pilate for Jesus’ body (Matthew 27:58). • Took the body down, wrapped it in clean linen (Matthew 27:59). • Laid Christ in his own new tomb, hewn from the rock (Matthew 27:60). • Rolled a great stone over the entrance—finishing the task completely (Matthew 27:60). Traits Worth Copying • Courage—publicly identified with Jesus when most disciples hid (Mark 15:43). • Generosity—used significant personal resources for the Lord (John 19:38-40). • Prompt obedience—served “when it was evening,” not waiting for convenient timing (Matthew 27:57-58). • Humility—no recorded speech about himself; actions spoke (James 2:18). • Scriptural sensitivity—unknowingly fulfilled prophecy that the Messiah would be “with a rich man in His death” (Isaiah 53:9). Practical Ways to Serve Like Joseph Today • Speak up for Christ at work or school even if it costs social standing (1 Corinthians 16:13). • Offer tangible help—meals, transportation, finances—when believers suffer loss (Galatians 6:10). • Dedicate personal “assets” to kingdom use: a spare room for missionaries, a business skill for church projects (Romans 12:6-8). • Finish tasks completely; don’t leave good deeds half-done (Colossians 3:23-24). • Step forward quickly when a need appears; delays often close doors (Proverbs 3:27-28). Heart Attitudes That Fuel Joseph-Style Service • Love for Christ above reputation (Luke 14:26-27). • Faith that quiet acts matter eternally (Hebrews 6:10). • Willingness to be “a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). • Trust that God will provide when we give generously (2 Corinthians 9:8-11). Encouraging Parallels from Scripture • Mary of Bethany’s costly perfume—extravagant devotion (John 12:3). • The Good Samaritan—crossing social boundaries to meet needs (Luke 10:33-35). • Barnabas—selling land to supply fellow believers (Acts 4:36-37). A Simple Weekly Action Plan • Sunday: Ask the Spirit to show one concrete need around you. • Monday: Identify a resource (time, skill, possession) you can release. • Tuesday: Initiate contact with the person or ministry needing help. • Wednesday: Follow through—deliver the help promised. • Thursday: Invite a trusted believer to hold you accountable. • Friday: Quietly thank God for the privilege of serving. • Saturday: Reflect on how the week’s service drew you nearer to Christ (James 4:8). |
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