Joy

"Matthew? Could you come and talk with me for a moment?" My parents were building a house, and with that came a lot of work. They needed my help in various ways, picking up scraps, nailing boards (my favorite), running errands, etc. But today they had a question.

 

As I came willingly I had a hunch it was good news because they had smiles on their faces. The conversation went something like this: "Matthew, we have been pleased with your willingness to work hard these last few days. We would like to give you the evening off."

It was kind of a one-sided conversation. but I may have said, "thanks" while running to the neighbor's house to play ball.

 

Something interesting has happened with that memory; what do I remember? I can't think of what I played that night with Andy the neighbor, but I do remember the faces of my parents and the sacrifice they willingly made for my enjoyment. The only thing they got out of it was seeing my joy.

 

When was the last time you did something simply to see the joy on another? Hebrews 12:2 says there was joy set before Jesus. Scripture says Jesus, for the joy set before Him, endured the cross. Jesus went through the cross so there would be joy, not for His joy, but for yours and mine. What a loving Savior to give so much just to see joy of others.It makes me want to be more like Him!