Week 1 - Day 4
Many people think that Jesus was "robotto" and unemotional. He supposedly "floated" through life with a serenity and restraint that would make Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and John Wayne envious. Some picture Him like Mr. Spock from Star Trek completely devoid of emotions, especially laughter.
Hebrews 1:8 debunks this when it says of Jesus, "... Your G*d, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions." Some would say, "Well, this is speaking of Jesus when He ascended to heaven." I don't believe so (even though a "glad Jesus" in heaven would mess up many people's theology)!
John 15:11 shows that Jesus walked in great joyfulness when on Earth. He said, "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full" (see also John 16:24; 17:13, and 1 John 1:4). It was a big deal to Jesus that we walk like Him in this "full Joy." (And I don't believe for a moment that this gladness was always a quiet, inner joy that looked like Mr. Spock. I believe it was at times noisy, silly, freeing, and made Jesus fun to be with.)
Unlike our Savior, many Christians today are not fun to be with. Jesus was the desired guest at weddings and other events that "sinners" were attending. His joy caused Him to be attractive and have favor in relationships. He set an example for us to not only live in an uncompromising manner in the world, but to do so with joy.
There's one more thing to say about this. It's important to realize that our mental picture concerning the personality of Jesus will dramatically affect our own personality. Religious tradition has practically eliminated true joy from the Jesus we worship. The consequences have been unfortunate for our lives, our churches and for the kingdom. Let's seek G*d afresh and find the joy side of His nature that is so desperately needed today.
Declaration: The Holy Spirit is making me more like Jesus every day. My emotions are getting unlocked and I am experiencing great joy. I laugh heartily every day. My joy causes many to receive hope and to come into the kingdom.
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