Jesus came that we might have not only eternal life, but even abundant life now. (John 10:10) His coming brought true and lasting joy into a dark world. However, this joy has more to do with focus than it does circumstances. How often do we allow external conditions of life to take away the joy our Lord has sought to instill within us. Consider the circumstances of the birth of Jesus. They were certainly not glorious in all aspects. There was no room at the inn, therefore their room became a stable and our Lord’s bed was a manger. He was also not brought into a king’s family, although He was to be the King of kings. He grew up in the humble home of a poor carpenter, yet His growth caught the attention of others. (Luke 2:46-52) And even the many things the Lord endured as He walked the face of this earth were distressing. As we look at His life, we are to learn that joy can be possessed even in the midst of pain and struggle. It was Jesus’ focus on the purpose of His coming that was the source of His endless joy.
The Hebrew writer exhorted. . .
“(1) Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, (2) looking to 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. (3) Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.” (Hebrews 12:1-3 ESV)
Jesus triumphed in joy over death and made it possible for us to view death with the joy of eternal hope. (note 1 Thessalonians 4:13) But even as we press on in this realm, Jesus would have us understand the essence of joy. He desires for His joy to be our joy.
Prior to Jesus’ crucifixion, He encouraged the disciples with these words. . .
“(9) As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. (10) If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. (11) These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” (John 15:9-11 ESV)
Later Jesus also noted the grief the disciples would endure as He was crucified. However, He encouraged them that their sorrow would “turn into joy” and it would be a joy that could not be taken away. (John 16:20 & 22)
Paul experienced such joy in his relationship to the Lord and service in the kingdom that he was able to state, “In all our affliction I am overflowing with joy.” (2 Corinthians 7:4 ESV) Therefore his encouragement to others was to “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!” (Philippians 4:4 ESV)
Jesus was joyful as He viewed the accomplishment of the means of our salvation. Paul shared that joy as he labored for the cause of Christ. We can also experience that joy as we keep in mind what it is all about to live life for Christ Who gave His life for us. May we be strengthened by a joy that cannot be taken from us.
Have a great day EXPERIENCING THE JOY OF JESUS!
Carl
