Watching The Joy

“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For you are our glory and joy” (1 Thessalonians 2:19,20).

The early Apostles had one goal in this life, to bring as many people to Christ as possible. Paul said, “I am separated to the Gospel of God” meaning that he was exclusively dedicated to getting God’s glorious invitation into the hands of people who had never heard. “Woe is me, if I do not preach the Gospel!” was his cry. It was a fire in his heart, unquenchable, and willing to suffer whatever it took so people might be saved.

Saving souls is unlike anything else. Those who win people to Christ have one desire – to do it again. We can’t take anything to Heaven with us except those we’ve won to Him on earth. Paul said the only crown he wanted for serving Christ was to see the joy on people’s faces as they stand in the presence of their Savior.

Such a life’s goal makes everything else seem insignificant – and that’s a good thing. It’s the right perspective. Our daily lives and day jobs are the avenues for a far greater purpose than money - reaching souls that are perishing. God has extended an invitation to His Kingdom and Glory through the Cross of His Son, which He asked us to hand out everywhere.

Look at your family and imagine them in Jesus’ presence. Look around you at Church and imagine seeing them standing before the Throne of God, being rewarded for their faithful and joyful service, and receiving their new commissions in His Kingdom.

Nothing is more important today than living and sharing Christ while Heaven watches.

(Devotional by Lisa Cataford)