What Joy Awaited Jesus?

The four Gospels describe the terrible suffering and shame that surrounded Jesus’ crucifixion. For instance, the soldiers bound Him and led Him away. Some spit at him, blindfolded Him, struck Him with fists. Even the Sanhedrin spit in His face and struck Him.

Ruth Bell Graham tells of awakening at three o’clock in the morning, and the name of one she loved dearly flashed through her mind. She knew there would be no more sleep for her that night. She lay there and prayed for the one who was trying hard to run from God. In the dark, her imaginations ran wild.

Not only did God tell the Israelites to follow the ark into the uncrossable Jordan, the priests were to take the first step into the river. “And as soon as the priests who carry the ark of the Lord—the Lord of all the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off and stand up in a heap” (Joshua 3:13).

When our church was having a series of special evening meetings, I was trying to decide if I should do my work or go to church. Deadlines were looming and I knew I’d feel guilty if I left my work, but then with a sinking feeling, I realized I’d also feel guilty if I skipped church. It was a no-win situation.

When reading scripture, it may be helpful to allow our imagination to help us see beyond what the words say. For instance, if we read about Mary Magdalene’s washing Jesus’ feet, we consider, “How would I be feeling if I were expressing my love to Jesus by washing His feet as she did? How can I experience that same passionate devotion?