But, on perceiving that Jesus was already dead, the soldiers did not give themselves the trouble of breaking his legs, as they had done those of the two malefactors that were crucified with him. One of them, however, either out of wantonness or cruelty, thrust a spear into His side, and out of the wound flowed blood and water.

This wound, therefore, was of the greatest importance to mankind, as it abundantly demonstrated the truth of our Saviour ' s death , and consequently prevented all objections that the enemies to our holy faith would otherwise have raised against it. The Evangelist adds that the legs of our great Redeemer were not broken, but his side pierced, that two particular prophecies might be fulfilled; " A bone of him shall not be broken; " and " They shall look on him whom they have pierced. "

Among the disciples of our blessed Jesus, was one called Joseph, of Aramathea; a person equally remarkable for his birth, fortune and office. This man, who was not to be intimidated by the malice of his countrymen, went boldly to Pilate, and begged the body of his great Master. He had, indeed, nothing to fear from the Roman governor, who, during the whole course of our Saviour ' s trial, had shown the greatest inclination to release Him; but he had reason to apprehend that this action might draw upon him the malice of the rulers of the Jews, who had taken such great pains to get the Messiah crucified. However, the great regard he had for the remains of his Master made him despise the malice of the Jews; being persuaded that Omnipotence would defend him, and cover his enemies with shame and confusion. And he well knew that if no friend procured a grant of the body, it would be ignominiously cast out among the executed malefactors.