Sometimes the greatest acts of faith happen quietly, behind the scenes. When the world seems dark and others rush toward compromise, God notices those who quietly remain faithful. Joseph of Arimathea is one of those quiet heroes—an unlikely disciple who shows us what it means to waitwith hope and act with courage.

Luke 23:50–51 (NLT)
“Now there was a good and righteous man named Joseph. He was a member of the Jewish high council, but he had not agreed with the decision and actions of the other religious leaders. He was from the town of Arimathea in Judea, and he was waiting for the Kingdom of God to come.”

Reflection
Joseph of Arimathea’s story appears at one of the darkest moments in history—after Jesus has died, when most of His followers have scattered in fear. Yet here stands Joseph, described as “good and righteous,” still believing that the Kingdom of God was worth waiting for. His faith didn’t crumble when it seemed like all hope was lost. Instead, it compelled him to act.

Even though Joseph was part of the council that condemned Jesus, he did not consent to their decision. In a world of pressure and compromise, he chose integrity. When he asked Pilate for Jesus’ body, he risked reputation, position, and even safety—all because his heart was aligned with God’s kingdom rather than the kingdoms of men.

This quiet disciple reminds us that waiting for the Kingdom isn’t passive—it’s active faith. It means standing for truth when others turn away, holding on to hope when the world only sees defeat. Like Joseph, we are called to live with anticipation of Christ’s reign, even when the evidence around us feels bleak.

Application
Are you willing to stand apart when it costs you something? Faithfulness often looks like simple obedience in difficult times—choosing honesty, showing mercy, offering love when it’s inconvenient. Waiting for the Kingdom means trusting that God’s promises are real, even when the world says otherwise. Ask the Lord today to give you Joseph’s courage: quiet, steadfast, and rooted in hope.

References
Romans 8:25 (NLT) – “But if we look forward to something we don’t yet have, we must wait patiently and confidently.”
Galatians 6:9 (NLT) – “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.”

Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the example of Joseph of Arimathea—faithful, courageous, and full of hope. Help me to wait for Your Kingdom with that same quiet strength. When the world turns away, teach me to stand firm. When fear whispers that hope is gone, remind me that You are risen and Your Kingdom is coming. Give me courage to live for You today, in word and in deed. Amen.