Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from the Judean town of Arimathea, and he himself was waiting for the kingdom of God. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body. Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. Luke 23:50

Lord Jesus,

Thank you for the example of Joseph of Arimathea; that even in all his anguish at your crucifixion and the seeming failure of the Kingdom you had announced, he offered what he could - his own tomb. And did what he could - taking down your tortured body from the cross, wrapping it in a shroud and placing it in the tomb.

In this dark time of lock - down, when people are sick and dying in large numbers, job have been lost, businesses fail, our economy is faltering and there is fear everywhere, show us how to do what only we can do.

Help us to listen to your voice telling us who needs a phone call, some shopping, financial help or some meals delivering.

Help us to give what we have so we too, like Joseph, can be part of the resurrection story this Easter.

WE pray for:

The people helping us - shop workers, refuse collectors, teachers and the police - give them protection and your affirmation every day.

Those who are watching church services online who don’t know you yet - revelation and new beginnings.

Thank you Jesus,

Amen.