Do you believe people can change? Can they change thought patterns? Or perhaps even personality tendencies?

Well, Jesus is in the life-changing business, and not only at the time of our salvation. His transforming work in us is a life-long process. Let’s look at a couple of people Jesus influenced.

Joseph of Arimathea is mentioned briefly by all four gospel writers. We learn he was rich, good and upright, and a prominent member of the Sanhedrin (the Jewish ruling council). John’s description includes, “Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jews” (John 19:38b).

This Joseph reminds me of another undercover disciple. Remember Nicodemus? He also was a member of the Sanhedrin. He came to Jesus at night, perhaps secretly, wanting to avoid the crowds or being seen with Jesus. Jesus explained to him the meaning of being ‘born again’ and God’s plan of salvation for all who believe.

The most amazing thing about these two men is after Jesus’ crucifixion, we find them stepping up in a courageous gesture, no longer undercover. Joseph of Arimathea boldly goes to the Roman governor, Pilate, and asks permission to take Jesus’ body. Nicodemus joins Joseph in preparing Jesus’ body for burial. Together, they place Jesus in a new tomb belonging to Joseph.

As members of the Sanhedrin, it would have been difficult to support Jesus openly. But later, God clearly called them to step up, especially since Jesus’ disciples had fled upon His arrest and His family was no doubt overwrought with grief.

Only God knows who we can become and what we can accomplish. With Him by our side, we can push down fear and do the work He has called us to do, for “with God, all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26b).