Sts. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus

Today is the feast of two saints, leading Jewish men who lived at the same time as Jesus. Both had their reputations in the community to consider, and yet both were drawn by the power and wisdom of Jesus' message.
Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus both showed courage when it was called for- Nicodemus in defending Jesus to his fellow religious leaders, and Joseph in requesting Jesus' body for burial from Pilate, the local political leader.

Sometimes it's easy to be a Christian. Sometimes, in ways large and small, it can be a challenge. Sometimes, you can find subtle ways to get around the obstacles (like Nicodemus, visiting with Jesus at night). Other times, nothing less than speaking truth to power (and understanding and accepting the potential consequences) is required.

Suddenly, I'm reminded of the popular "Serenity Prayer":

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference. (Reinhold Niebuhr) Joseph and Nicodemus, pray for us!