Scripture Reading
Hebrews 12:2
...looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Reflection
Jesus endured the cross "for the joy set before him." His suffering was not in spite of joy but in pursuit of it — and the joy was us, our redemption, our reconciliation to the Father. When the path before us is costly, we can look to him as the one who showed us that endurance and joy are not opposites but companions on the same road.
Prayer for Today
Father, Miracle-Worker, I put my trust and my faith in You because I know that nothing is impossible with You. Just as You told Sarah about the coming birth of Isaac, I know You will make a way when there is no way. You raised Lazarus from the dead. You made the dry bones have flesh again and then made breath enter them. Father, You look out for Your people, and for that, I praise You. You are the same God today as You were then. I believe in the power of Your hand. I believe in Your intervention. My mind has silenced the critics. I cannot hear the non-believers. All I hear is You, my Father. What harm can come to me when I walk with You? Amen.
Amen.