The Joyful Dead

It’s a very odd contrast that we are called both to take up our crosses (or some fresher method of accessing our deaths) daily, but also be the most joyful creatures in the universe.

Therefore since we also have such a large cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of God’s throne.

(Hebrews 12:1-2 Holman Christian Standard Bible®©)

Then looking up at His disciples, He said: “Blessed are you who are poor, because the kingdom of God is yours. Blessed are you who are hungry now, because you will be filled. Blessed are you who weep now, because you will laugh. Blessed are you when people hate you, when they exclude you, insult you, and slander your name as evil, because of the Son of Man.”

“Rejoice in that day and leap for joy! Take note—your reward is great in heaven, because this is the way their ancestors used to treat the prophets.”

(Luke 6:20-23 Holman Christian Standard Bible®©)