Mk15

If we are focused on the Kingdom of God, we will be bold in our obedience to Jesus. If our focus is this world, Jesus will be minimized. Joseph of Arimathea, who was a prominent member of the Sanhedrin, was bold in offering to bury Jesus in his tomb. 

Most members of the Sanhedrin were working hard to have Jesus crucified, but Joseph boldly asked for his dead body and properly made arrangements for Jesus' burial. Why? The text clearly said, "he was looking forward to the kingdom of God." Jesus' words about the kingdom had gripped his heart and he had become a true follower of Christ.

Jesus taught us to pray, "Your kingdom come." The pharisees had Jesus crucified because they were "envious". Jesus threatened their kingdom. He demanded change. He wanted them to live differently. Their love for this world caused them to want Jesus out of it! I wonder if I sometimes feel the same way?

Live for the kingdom that is to come. Not this temporary world.