For The Joy

 

     Imagine the Creator of the universe, the Word of the infinite God, the One with thousands of angels under His authority, offering to live as one of us and experience humanity in all of its forms. Jesus wept. The Son of God became angry. The Messiah felt weariness and was tempted in every way. Our Savior prayed continually for guidance from our Father in heaven. The good Shepherd sweat drops of blood agonizing over the death to come.

     He did it willingly. In fact, He did if for the coming joy.

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 12:2b

     If we could only imagine the joys of heaven. Jesus knew the end of the story. The agonizing darkness on Friday would become a glorious Sunday filled with light and hope. Death had no power over Him. And it has no power over you, because of Him. He did it for you and me. He suffered every sin we would commit, every disease that we experience, every grief that robs hope from the soul. He overcame it all for the glorious joy of resurrection and redemption. He did it for you. He did it for me.

Jesus,

There are no words. The plan of salvation was written before time began. You counted it joy and You are worthy to be praised from now ‘til forevermore.

Amen