September 27, 2020: SOAP #3951:  Haggai 1-2; Psalm 129; Luke 10   

Scripture:  Luke (NIV) 10:17 The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.” … 21 At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.

Observation:  Here is a descriptive phrase that is not necessary for the narrative but gives us insight into the life of Jesus.  He was “full of joy through the Holy Spirit.”  

The Holy Spirit was active in the conception and birth of Jesus (Luke 1:35; 2:25-27).  He was also active in the pre-ministry baptism and temptation (Luke 3:22; 4:1).  Then He was acknowledged by Jesus in the synagogue when Jesus claimed Isaiah was writing about Him (Luke 4:18-21). 

Here in chapter 10 Luke gives us the Holy Spirit as a source of joy in Jesus life.  Jesus is not described as having joy but being “full of joy!” 

Application:  If my goal is to be like Jesus, then the Holy Spirit must be an important part of my life.  Since Jesus life here on earth is to be my example, then I too should be “full of joy through the Holy Spirit!”   

If the joy in my heart arises from the presence of the Holy Spirit, then it should be obvious to others.  It should be a joy that cannot be hidden, a joy that cannot be contained, a joy that spills out all over.   May I be a carrier, and spreader, of great joy!   

Prayer:  Holy Spirit, keep me full of your presence and full of your joy.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!