Happy Valentine's Day

Hebrews 12:2
"Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter
of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross,
scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

I've always assumed that the "joy set before him" was Heaven. Perfect communion with God. Forever. Isn't that the joy set before all of us? But in a sermon at church recently I gained a new perspective.

What was Jesus' joy that was set before him? Why did he endure the pain of the cross? What didn't he have before his death that he could have because of his death? The answer is: YOU. He couldn't look forward to being with you in heaven for all eternity until he paid the price to wipe out your sin and mine.

YOU ARE HIS JOY!

Happy Valentine's Day!