For the Joy

Hebrews 12:2 … fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Haven’t you often wondered how Jesus was able to endure the shame, the beatings, the rejection and the death he experienced on earth?  I have.  I’ve wondered it about others too who have been beheaded, tortured, beaten, and killed all because of their faith. 

This verse answers that question.

Their eyes were fixed.  Jesus’ eyes were fixed on obedience to the Father, and martyrs have their eyes fixed on Jesus, the one who died for them and conquered the sting of death.

These all grasped the concept that there was a greater joy coming for those who endure, when death is no more, and when obedience is complete.

Sometimes my eyes wander away from being fixed on Him, when I look around at the horror of the stories on the news, the devastation in cities that are destroyed by weather, or when I learn of a family member of friend going through a difficult time.

However, fixing our eyes on Jesus is a must and the only way to life…in a dying world.  It’s a choice we have to make, to turn back around and gaze into those loving eyes that gave it all so we could live.

Greater joy awaits those who endure, with their eyes fixed on Him.