Very often during funerals, I hear speaker after speaker giving lengthy eulogies about the boldness or courage of the man or woman who is to be buried or cremated. As I listen to them speak, and knowing how that dead person stood very often alone in adversity, I wonder why these wonderful orators never stood by him or her, while he or she was still alive?
In the Biblical account of Jesus’ crucifixion, Joseph of Arimathea, a member of the council, is often remembered for his bold act of burying Jesus in his own tomb. However, it is equally significant to note that Joseph, as a member of the council, had the opportunity to speak out in defence of Jesus during his trial, but chose not to.
Instead, he waited until after Jesus’ death to show his support.
This paradox raises important questions about courage, conviction, and the human tendency to speak more boldly after the fact.
How many of us can relate to Joseph’s silence in the face of adversity?
How often do we find ourselves speaking out only after it is safe to do so, when the consequences of our words are minimal?
The phenomenon of speaking boldly afterwards is evident in many areas of life, including eulogies at funerals. We often hear people praising the deceased for their courage, conviction, and willingness to stand alone. Yet, it is striking to consider how many of these same individuals may have failed to stand with the deceased during their lifetime, when it would have made a real difference.
This disparity between our words and actions raises important questions about our own courage and conviction. Are we willing to stand up for what we believe in, even when it is difficult or unpopular? Or do we reserve our boldness for safer, more convenient moments?
The story of Joseph of Arimathea serves as a powerful reminder that true courage and conviction require action, not just words. It is easy to speak out after the fact, when the stakes are low, and the consequences are minimal. But it is much harder to stand up for what we believe in when it truly matters, when the consequences of our actions are uncertain and potentially costly.
As we reflect on our own lives and actions, let us ask ourselves: Are we like Joseph of Arimathea, waiting until it is safe to speak out? Or are we willing to stand up for what we believe in, even when it is difficult or unpopular?
The answer to this question will reveal the true nature of our courage and conviction.
Next time you see someone standing alone for what he or she believes in, speak up, or remain shamefully silent as they are lowered into the grave..!
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Couldn’t agree more Bobby! The subject is very close to my heart as it would probably take a miracle to find a non fence-sitter these days. …😅
True Carol. How good to hear from you!
Very true and beautifully expressed, Bobby
Thank you Monu
Your words remind me of the words the pastor does before pronouncing a man and woman as married.He says, ‘If any has a lawful cause as to why this man and woman should not be married, speak now or for ever hold your peace.’ That there’s a time to speak and a time to remain silent, is written in Ecclesiastes 3.
Yes Kripa.
I agree to this because I have many friends who meet me in church and inquire about my husband who is in dialysis and I tell them don’t ask me. Come and visit him and don’t come for the funeral. They are quite taken aback. I find funerals a big sham. The church is crowded with people who could have visited, reached out , given some financial aid when he or she is alive. Another though I keep sharing is ” Don’t give biscuits, coconut water, fruits for the patient. Keep an envelope with some cash be it 100/- or 1000/-. It is much needed.
Thank you for sharing this Virginia. Such a revelation to many of us who just offer empty words.