Bringing Joy to the Lord

The seventy-two returned with joy and said, "Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name." He replied, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven." At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure." (Luke 10:17-21, NIV)

One of the blessings of being a parent is experiencing the happiness and joy of children. John Alan and Natalie both greet me with excitement when I come home. And, they love to share their accomplishments. Whether it is a picture, a toy, or a hug, they love to give with joy. In John Alan's case, he is learning to read and write. He loves to share when he learns to write a new word. Last night, he made Rebecca a card that said, "I Love You" and was excited to share.

We are sinners. We know that. Preachers, writers, and evangelists constantly remind us that our works before the Lord are like "filthy rags." Yes, that is the case. Nevertheless, Jesus received the joy of the Seventy-two as they returned from their brief mission into the neighboring communities. They saw things that we would love to see. They were instruments of God's grace and instruments of God's power over the forces of evil. They visably demonstrated the things that they had only before accepted by faith. And , they were excited. They radiated joy.

Jesus did not condemn their joy. He did not ask them whether or not they understood that it was God who was working. He received their joy and then gently reminded them that their destiny was more important than the things that they saw on their mission. And, then, Jesus gave praise to his Father who loves it when his children greet him at the door, excited about what they have learned, what they have seen, and what they are able to do.