Moment With The Master
“Heart of the Messiah”
Categories: Moment With The MasterThen I said, "Behold, I come; In the scroll of the book it is written of me. I delight to do Your will, O my God, And Your law is within my heart." (Psalms 40:7-8)
The above expression is also repeated in Hebrews 10:7, 9. The Hebrew writer applies these prophetic words to the sacrifice of Jesus. These words not only describe the Lord’s willingness to be sacrificed for the redemption of man, but also describe every phase of his earthly existence!
The will of God was the chief thought of his heart. At the tender age of twelve Jesus’ desire was to please God. When Joseph and Mary found him in the temple in the midst of the teachers, his answer to them was, “"Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father's business?" (Luke 2:49) The heart of the Messiah was revealed (Matthew 3:15) at his baptism, at his temptation (Matthew 4:4), and on and on. His daily, hourly work was to do the will of the Father. (John 5:19)
The will of God was the supreme joy of his heart. It was because of his generous offering that man is given the opportunity of sanctification and salvation. Because of his sinless life he perfectly filled up the plan of God for human redemption. Without one charge of guilt against him, he suffered a criminal’s death. This he did joyfully (Hebrews 12:2) knowing what it would accomplish.
As his disciples we are called to follow his steps. (I Peter 2:2) The will of God must be our consuming passion. No matter what we may suffer, we must do it joyfully knowing that our reward is in heaven. (Matthew 5:11, 12)
George Slover
