Seventy-two of the disciples had just come back from a Christ-ordained, Spirit-led mission trip. They were overwhelmed with what they saw being done through them. Maybe you have been on one, or several, even many mission trips around the world, or even in our country, and experienced the same kind of joy and amazement as these disciples. I know I have. To see God’s power at work is a humbling but rich blessing.

So, what are you rejoicing in today? That you woke up, have food to eat, a job to go to, good health, wonderful marriage, fabulous children and grandchildren, and I might add, great grandchildren. What is it or are they? Jesus immediately moved to the most important thing in which we should be rejoicing. That our names are written in the book of life in heaven. Grace upon grace. He’s saying that all of these physical or spiritual things are good, but it’s not the best.

And I find it very interesting that it in the next verse we see this. I wonder if you’ve ever really focused on the fact that Jesus, the Christ, the son of God, actually rejoiced while here on earth. ‘In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.”’

So, are you rejoicing in your salvation? Jesus says you should be. “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psa. 118.24