September 25 Into Jesus’ Joy

Luke 24:52-53 Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. 53 And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.
 
Great Joy – Part 5
 
WE have seen in these past few lessons on joy how Jesus’ suffering on the cross overflows into a Spirit-given joy to our lives now and forever. It is only through our faith in the cross of suffering and death that Jesus’ joy becomes real for us. Imagine! He has died, risen and ascended to reign at the Father’s right hand. Jesus now bids his own to be with him. And our Lord Jesus will come again to draw all of his church together into a New Heaven and earth. This gospel message should overflow awe, wonder and joy into our minds.  We are, indeed, eternally well with our Lord.
    Yes, we can be assured that joy is this: A deep emotional sense of well-being in Jesus’ gospel. This is what the disciples experienced the day Jesus ascended to heaven. As they returned to Jerusalem with great joy they fully understood the full gospel. The Redeemer’s promise of eternal life is true! No longer would they in fear and amazement ask one another, "Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.” (Luke 8:25) Each word of his teachings has become alive and real in his disciples’ hearts. They know death is overcome as their Savior welcomes them into a life with him. Because Jesus lives, they knew Jesus’ joy for the rest of their lives. All was well for them even as they faced great persecution because Jesus said, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:21b)   
    Is Jesus with you? Do you say he is? Do you believe it? Then live with great joy. Each day as you arise, first consider and confess, “Jesus is my Lord and Savior.” How thrilling for you to know you can live a faithful life of discipleship, linked with Jesus’ joy.
    It’s true. When you in faith encounter the risen Lord, you are his forever: John 10:28-29 “And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of my hand. 29 my Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of my Father's hand.”
    Want joy? Get Jesus. Joy is the Spirit’s gift to awaken you to the overwhelming grace the Lord has bestowed upon you. Call on the name of Jesus and know that you are forever alive in Christ.
    Overflow with Jesus’ joy.
 
Prayer: Psalms 16:11 You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Amen.