Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 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.

The joy Jesus offers is unlike the one promised at the car dealership or shopping mall. He is not interested in a joy that depends upon circumstance.

Did his joy hinge on the approval of others? No, even his family didn’t believe in him. Did his joy depend upon possessions? He didn’t even have a place to lay his head. Was his joy based on the loyalty of people? Peter denied him. Judas betrayed him. The Romans murdered him. Yet, “for the joy set before him he endured the cross”.

Jesus enjoyed a resilient joy.

What about you? Have you buried a dream? Have you buried a marriage? Buried a friend? As you look at these burial plots of life, is your joy buried there as well?

If so, you may have anchored your vessel of joy to the wrong place.

During my single years, I lived on a houseboat that was docked on the Miami River. The water level would rise and fall with the tide. The boat would rock back and forth with the river traffic. But though the river changed and the boat rocked, we never drifted. The boat was anchored to a concrete wall.

Courageously joyful people have done something similar. They have tethered their hearts to the foundation of God.

Is that to say your life will be storm-free? No. “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12 ESV).

Is that to say no sorrow will come your way? No. “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NIV).

Is that to say you will never cross the drylands of sorrow? No. But that is to say your sorrow will not last forever. “Your sorrow will be turned into joy” (John 16:20b NKJV).

The boat will rock. Moods will come and go. But will you be left adrift on the Atlantic of despair? No, for you have found a joy that remains courageous through the storm.

Prayer

Father in Heaven, Help me anchor my soul in Jesus and find complete joy. Thank you for your constant guidance. In Jesus’ name, amen.