Good morning…
“For the joy set before him (Jesus) endured the cross,” explains Hebrews 12:2b (NIV). This is a good thing to remember as we walk into Lent.
We all have different crosses to bear. The cross of grieving a loved one who has left this earth. The cross of a scary diagnosis and its various treatment options. The cross of addiction or estrangement, mental illness or challenging relationships, healing after surgery or caring for young kids or aging adults. We all have different crosses to bear.
Jesus endured his cross “for the joy set before him.” The joy of living in union with each one of us. The joy of buying us abundant, everlasting life. The joy of oneness, us and him with our Creator and God’s living Spirit. Just like Jesus, we can endure our cross “for the joy set before us.” The joy of a heavenly reunion. The joy of a new, bright future. The joy of freedom from our current bondage.
We may have different crosses and reasons for joy, but we all share the same focus: Jesus, Immanuel, God with us. …let us run with endurance and active persistence the race that is set before us, [looking away from all that will distract us and] focusing our eyes on Jesus, who is the Author and Perfecter of faith [the first incentive for our belief and the One who brings our faith to maturity] (Hebrews 12:1b-2a, AMP).
Fixing our eyes on Jesus, our heart trusts this truth: You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:11, AMP).
Holding Jesus’ left hand, we receive simple pleasures from his right hand, day after day. Walking with Jesus, we learn to endure our own cross with joy.
…Sue…
