The 72 disciples return from their mission full of joy at the success they experienced. But Jesus cautions them: their joy needs a deeper foundation than success. Instead, Jesus urges the disciples to ground their joy in the reality that their names are written in heaven. Here we find the secret to lasting joy that can carry us through a life full of victories and setbacks. When Jesus himself rejoices—even on the way to the cross—we see how solid and eternal our joy can be.

1. Where are you tempted to look for joy in things that can't always provide it?
2. How can God's grace give you joy in the midst of the circumstances you're dealing with now?
3. How does it anchor your joy to know that Jesus rejoices over your salvation, despite what it cost him?