Wednesday in Holy Week

Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 70; Hebrews 12:1-3; John 13:21-32

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Heb. 12:1-2)

For the sake of the joy that was set before him.

Jesus tells Judas to go on, do what he must, take his part in the drama.  For the sake of the joy.

We do not undergo because we are undeserving of joy or love.  We do not pick up our cross because someone else tells us it’s our place.  We undergo for the sake of the joy that is set before us.  We choose not to retaliate when we could; we choose to bear one another’s burdens; we sometimes choose to suffer betrayal, for the sake of the joy that is set before us.  

What is this joy?  It’s the joy of union with God, of knowing ourselves to be beloved.  It’s the joy of being channels of love and peace in turn.  It’s the joy of standing for truth and love, not being ruled by our very human fear and shame.  

Jesus pioneered this way for us.  He did not just do it “for us,” instead of us; he showed us the way.

Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.