Jesus Cares About Your Joy
by Melissa B. Kruger           

These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
John 15:11

Last words matter. When someone dies, we often think back to our final conversation, remembering and reflecting on what we said to each other. I hope my final words will be full of love and care for those I leave behind.

On the night before He died, Jesus shared a final meal and conversation with His disciples. Though they didn’t understand that Jesus was about to die, Jesus knew His time was short. What was Jesus concerned about as He prepared to leave those He loved?

The apostle John recorded much of their conversation. In John 14–16 we read that Jesus comforted His disciples and encouraged them to not be troubled. He assured them that although He was going away, He would come back for them. He told them that if they loved Him, they would obey Him. He explained that the Spirit would come and dwell within them and be with them always.

He also taught them to abide. He told them He was the Vine and they were the branches. Apart from Jesus they could do nothing. They’d be dry and useless. But if they would abide in His Word and in prayer and obey His commandments, they would bear much fruit—all to the glory of God.

And then Jesus explained why He was telling them all these things. His answer is somewhat surprising. We get so caught up in what we’re supposed to do that we often forget the reason Jesus wants us to do what He’s asking.

As Jesus spoke these words, He was on His way to the cross. He was preparing to endure unimaginable pain. At this moment, what was on His mind? What goal prompted His last words to those He loved?

“These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full” ( John 15:11).

Jesus was concerned about our joy.