The relationship between Nicodemus and Jesus is coming to a fitting end.

Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jews. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away.  He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night. Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds. — John 19:38-39

Their journey together began with Nicodemus’ HOPE that Jesus would have the answers he was looking for.  That hope led to a deepening relationship which was realized when Nicodemus stood up in front of his colleagues, calling them to give Jesus a fair hearing, ad maybe they would also know in their hearts the FAITH he had claimed.

Faith and hope lead to love.  Accompanying Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus demonstrated his LOVE for Jesus by preparing his body for burial.  He brought the spices and together with Joseph they wrapped the body of Jesus and laid it in the tomb.

When our relationships are built on faith, hope and love they form a firm foundation to help us through difficult times.  Our true friends will not think less of us for seeking truth and direction in our lives.  Our true friends stick close and offer support when it seems everyone else is working against us.  Our true friends will love us at the lowest points in our lives.

Thank God for your true friends.  And use that time of thanksgiving as an opportunity to develop a friendship with Jesus.  If you are willing to risk a little, like Nicodemus who first came at night, He can be your source of your faith granting you hope each day and loving you always.