In the autumn, we managed to clear some of our financial liabilities for the house. This has enabled us, for the first time in a number of years, to have some financial headroom. So, I took Caroline out to visit the local jewellers to buy something as a token and celebration of our thirty years of marriage and love.

We tried various jewellers, but I felt that what we found for Caroline was not really rocking her boat. It seemed to me that she found it hard to be extravagant in buying something for herself. Decades of struggling financially can do that to you.

I felt led to come off the side-streets and go into the shopping mall, so we entered a high-class jeweller. When Caroline tried on one of the simple gold bracelets, we could see immediately that this was the one in which she delighted. The shop assistant noted that Caroline displayed an instant and a completely different reaction to its predecessors. The joy in the moment would be something that she will treasure.

Using parables, Jesus repeatedly proclaimed the joy that comes with the good news of the kingdom of God.

Matthew 13:44 – The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. (ESV)

Luke 15:9-10 – And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, "Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost." Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents. (ESV)

In an agrarian culture, Jesus gave the revelation of God's joy in everyday parables that were easily understood, for those who would listen and accept the truth of the message hidden within. Over the decades, I have studied the parables and still I delight in their directness to those who have an ear to hear. They provide a challenge to all who listen — including me!

It is as if Jesus were saying to us, "Do you really get it: the importance of what I am about? Wake up, smell the coffee, and comprehend what I am doing in words, proclamation, and action of what has been prophesied centuries before. Salvation is only through Me, Jesus."

In heaven, if not at present, Jesus is the bringer of joy for those who will accept Him. In return, we can know the gift of salvation and inner peace right now, and we can also look forward to eternity, when there is joy in heaven for all who dare to trust in His unfailing love for us.

When we say, "Amen. Come, Lord Jesus," I believe that He does, bringing gifts.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, may our joy be real and our thanks open-hearted as we go forward with You in this new year, giving You everything in order to gain a greater prize. In Your name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Rod Marshall <roderickhenrymarshall@gmail.com>
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, England
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