The One: AdventSample

Jesus teaches his followers saying, “when people reject you or persecute you for following me, rejoice, be very glad, because your reward is great in heaven.” We see in Jesus’ teaching that true joy can survive the harshest of circumstances because it is not dependent on circumstances. It is instead dependent on God and his promises for his people’s eternal future.

Read:

Matthew 5:11-12, Acts 13:50-52, Hebrews 12:1-3

Reflect:

According to these passages, how can joy be sustained even in painful and threatening circumstances?

Spend time reviewing Hebrews 12:1-3. Jesus endured great pain because he could see a greater joy beyond his suffering. In this passage, followers of Jesus are called to endure hardship with their sights set on Jesus; he becomes the joy set before them. What do you think it practically means to “fix your eyes on Jesus?”

Turn your reflections into a prayer from your heart to God.