The Joy Jesus Had…

Looking unto Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2, ESV)

What may be a task to some, may be a joy and welcomed activity for others. Personally, for me, it’s a task to unload the dishwasher. I don’t know why. I don’t have any trauma associated with dishwasher unloading. I have not had a bad experience doing so. It’s not like it’s taxing work. I don’t break a sweat. I don’t even have to go very far to put the dishes in their right place; just a few steps to the right or left, but for some reason it’s a task and I put it off as long as possible. On the other hand, someone else may not mind that activity at all and even find it relaxing.

Going to the cross on our behalf was not a task for Jesus. The Scriptures say he considered it a joy. He was not dreading it, nor feeling resentful about having to go, but welcomed it. His frame of mind and acceptance must have been centered on knowing what his dying would do and bring for sinners: opening the way of salvation, bring us into heavenly glory, redeem us, complete the requirement of sacrifice as stated in the law of God, free from us the grips of Satan, spiritually reverse what had been done in the Garden of Eden. So, knowing all this Jesus set his face, endured the shame and humiliation attached to death by crucifixion, endured the suffering and insults, and went to the cross.

His willingness to suffer, his determination to carry out the Father’s plan of salvation, and attitude of joy have become our greatest blessing. No wonder we shout for joy on Easter morning; because Jesus died in our place we can live in his place! I have set a personal goal of being more like Jesus and having an attitude of joy when I’m unloading my dishwasher. I haven’t reached that place yet, but I’m working on it. Let’s Pray

Jesus, we praise and thank you that going to the cross on our behalf was not a task for you but a joy. Only you could give up your life for those who do not deserve it. May we inherit that same attitude whenever we need to do anything we consider unpleasant. Amen              

Reflective Questions and Thoughts for Examination and Soul-Tending:

What is something you are not looking for to, even dreading? Can you pray to have the same attitude and spirit Jesus had when he was facing his death by crucifixion? How will you incorporate today’s message into your plan of self and soul-care?