Daily devotion – Joy!
The Joy Set Before Him
As Jesus Christ prepared for His death, what thoughts filled His heart in those final days before the Cross? Scripture graciously gives us a glimpse into His inner focus:
“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” — Hebrews 12:2
Our Lord walked this earth in perfect submission, choosing not to rely on His divine power for His own relief, but living in faithful dependence upon the Father. It was this unwavering faith that carried Him through suffering. His eyes were fixed—not on the agony of the Cross—but on “the joy that was set before Him.”
From Psalm 16:8–10, He knew the grave would not hold Him—that resurrection life awaited. From Psalm 110:1,4, He knew He would be exalted in glory at the Father’s right hand. The Cross was not the end; it was the pathway to victory.
And what was that joy?
The joy of fully accomplishing the Father’s will
The joy of resurrection and triumph over death
The joy of returning to heavenly glory
And wonderfully, the joy of presenting redeemed sinners—you and I—faultless before the Father (Jude 24)
What a staggering thought: we were part of His joy.
Easter stands as a powerful declaration of God’s grace and love. It calls the Church not to casual reflection, but to heartfelt rejoicing and deep thanksgiving. The Cross was endured with you in mind—its shame embraced so that you might share in His glory.
A warm encouragement as well to the women of Calvary:
Tuesday mornings at 9:30am here at the chapel are a precious opportunity to gather, grow, and be strengthened in the Word of God.
The study through the book of Ruth continues to be a rich blessing—marked by faithful, verse-by-verse teaching, heartfelt prayer, and genuine fellowship. It is a joy to acknowledge the dedication of my wife Helen, whose time, prayer, and careful preparation each fortnight are evident in the depth and clarity of the teaching. Her faithful service is a blessing to the women of the fellowship and a testimony to the power of God’s Word at work.
May the Lord continue to bless and grow this ministry, as His Word is lifted up and lives are anchored in His truth.