Passion

 

     It’s all about me! Me, me, me! Self-improvement, self-made, self-confidence, self-awareness, self-satisfied, self-assurance, self-gratification, self-image, self-promotion, self-respect, self-sufficient, self-indulgent. You get the picture. All of the above can be summed up as “selfish.” Jesus shows us another way, the way of blessing, the way of looking beyond ourselves. His way was and is self-sacrifice.

     Jesus sacrificed everything for us, becoming one of us and suffering all of our sins on Himself. It is called, “the passion of the Christ.” How did he do it? This verse may help.

For the joy set before Him He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2

     For the joy set before Him? Jesus saw beyond the pain of the cross to the everlasting life He offers us. He looked to the day we will be with Him forever. That self-sacrificing love teaches us how to live and how to love. Raising children has taught my husband and me the most about sacrificial love. Not always easy, but filled with the deepest, most astounding, most earth-shattering blessings of life. Giving to others brings blessing right back to us.

     Give away the love Christ has given you to others, even when it’s not convenient, even when it seems impossible, even when it’s too tiring, even when we don’t have time. The joy set before us, through Christ, gives us perspective and passion. Eternity-bound blessings.

Jesus,

You remained steadfast in Your suffering to fulfill the promises of Scripture. You saw us as You suffered. Teach us Your ways and to live beyond ourselves, to give away our lives in service to You.

Amen