April 12

"Who, for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross." — Hebrews 12:2.

THE Christian is pursuing a course that is identified with all that is solemn and sublime — his track is marked in lines of blood, and leads to glory, honor, and renown; it excites the interest of heaven, earth, and hell; many are watching him:

"A cloud of witnesses around Hold him in full survey."

He has the smiles of Jehovah, the ministration of angels, the prayers of the church. Jesus has gone before to lead the way, and prepare a place for him; and he is to be contemplated at every step. The truth taught us in this passage is, that the anticipation of joy supported the Saviour in the endurance of suffering. Let us view him in

HIS SEVERE CONFLICT. "Who endured the cross."

The dignity he possessed. When we refer to the Saviour in the scenes of his humiliation, we must never lose sight of his pre-existent glory and his unrivalled excellences. The splendor of his Godhead was for a time enshrined in the veil of his manhood; the world could see in him no more than a man, but the eye of faith beheld his glory.

The degradation he endured. "The cross." This was a death attended with the most excruciating pain, and connected with ignominy, shame, and reproach. But what was the pain of body felt on the cross, compared with the anguish of soul inflicted by the curse?

The design he had in view. He suffered to make an atonement for sin, to reconcile us unto God, and that he might finally bring us to everlasting glory. Let it be our humble and hearty desire, that these high and important ends may be accomplished in us, and that we may be ever looking unto Jesus.