Read Luke 10: v17-21
'...do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.”' Luke 10
What's the greatest joy you've experienced? Jesus gives us an insight to unconditional joy. Usually joy is associated with an outward circumstance. Jesus takes joy out of view and places it firmly in a hidden place.
The disciples come back from their mission excited by the results. People are freed, it's dramatic, they feel powerful! Jesus responds to their obvious joy by redirecting them toward a different source. One without limits.
You cannot plumb the depths of this joy. Jesus says "rejoice that your names are written in heaven." Names in hebrew culture refer to a person's identity. Jesus is directing us toward our eternal identity - our position in God as his children.
Rejoice! Get excited! Who you are isn't transient or temporary, your joy is sourced in your eternal nature as a beloved son or daughter of God.
God is pleased when we find joy in who we are and not what we do. Whether there are dramatic responses on #EscapeAndPray or hardships, remember joy is found in who you are and not people’s response.
Prayer:
Thank you God you call me your son/daughter and share your joy with me. Help me enjoy who you are more than what I do. Amen
Action:
Parents laugh when they see their children do funny things. Ask God what makes him laugh about you. Write what you sense down and come back to it when you need a joy top up.
