July 15, 2015: SOAP #2050

Scripture: Hebrews (NIV) 12:2 Let us keep looking to Jesus. He is the author of faith. He also makes it perfect. He paid no attention to the shame of the cross. He suffered there because of the joy he was looking forward to. Then he sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Observation: This verse tells me that Jesus was expecting that the joy he would have after dying on the cross would be fully worth the suffering. The weight of sin was temporary but the joy of the fellowship with those who would share His life would be eternal! Being forsaken by the Father was temporary but the Father’s appreciation for restoring His greatest creation would be eternal! The excruciating physical pain was temporary, but the satisfaction of having completed the Father’s assignment would be eternal.

Application: So, here is the question: is the life I am now living bringing Jesus “the joy he was looking forward to” when he died on the cross? Is the life I am now living as a child of God fulfilling the Father’s expectations when He sent His One and Only Son to die for me?

Prayer: Jesus, in my life may you find the joy you expected when you died on the cross. Heavenly Father, in my life may you find the loving fellowship you desired. Holy Spirit, live in and through me to fulfill their expectations. Amen