12-03-07 The joy -- Hebrews 12:2
We show people how to experience God's love. Out of that encounter flows everything good – healing, growth, obedience, sacrifice, mission. As you plan your year-end giving, remember that a gift to Dwight Clough Ministries Inc. empowers us to help people on every continent to experience God's love, sometimes for the very first time. DetailsLet us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. -- Hebrews 12:2 Guest devotional from Kim Clough
We were singing about the cross, and I saw in my mind Jesus standing in front of me, about four feet away. We were singing about the cross, and you would expect it to be a serious, somber, sad time. But Jesus had a huge grin on His face.
Why? In my mind I heard Him say, "I was happy to do it. Don't be sad -- I'm not. I wanted to do it."I found myself grinning too -- not very appropriate for a song about the cross perhaps -- but I couldn't get sad. He wasn't. He was happy.
Jesus put His arms around me and stood next to me with His arm around me. Then I understood. No, Jesus did not enjoy suffering. He didn't have a "martyr's complex." But Jesus laid down His life for us. No one killed Him. He laid down down His life willingly. And He is happy -- filled with joy -- that He could die for us. He is happy to know and love you and me.
Be encouraged!
Dwight
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