Enduring for Joy, Part 2

Scripture: Hebrews 12:2c-d

who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Insights: Yesterday we looked at the HIStory past part of this verse.  Today we are going to look at the HIStory present and future.  Presently Jesus is indeed seated at the right hand of the throne of God and in this place He is experiencing perfect joy.  It is impossible for us finite thinking humans to fully comprehend the vastness, beauty, splendor and perfection of God’s throne room, but let me assure you of this—the all-pervasive radiance of Christ Jesus’ joy floods that room like the sun bursting awake at dawn.  Literally nothing, no one, and no place can hide from this glorious certitude.  As if it were possible to fill Jesus with more joy (and I am not certain that is possible), the HIStory future also points to the joy set before Him.  Because of the death He died, Jesus paid the price to ransom us from God’s wrath.  If we have truly been born again, if we are truly filled with the Spirit because of an encounter with this risen Lord, then one day we will be gloriously presented to the Son as His bride.  Think a moment about weddings and the joyous expressions that so often radiate from the bride and groom.  Those amazing earthly twinkles and satisfaction found in these creations of God will in no way compare to the glorious joy exuding from Jesus on His wedding day.  His death paid the dowry for His bride and she, the Church, will fully understand that day the true extent and cost her Lover paid for her.  Beloved, I am not capable of truly expressing in words the fullness and depth of this joy.  It is an impossible task.  I hope, however, you are beginning to understand a little bit more of Jesus’ love for you.  For His joy to be fully experienced, He endured the cross and despised the shame to sit down next to His Father and be married to His bride.  WOW!  Love so amazing!  Glory and praise be to our Father and to His Son and to the Holy Spirit.  Let us exalt and lift His name on high and declare to the world His love for them.

Questions:

1. Have you ever thought about the joy Jesus experiences?
2. What about that thought surprises, intrigues, astonishes, etc. you?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I am incapable of understanding Your joy and the totality of its perfection.  Yet You tell me You give me Your joy.  Let it truly flow from the well springs of my life.  Amen.