In ancient days, death on a cross was not only excruciating, but it was also most shameful. Not only because of the public humiliation of people witnessing the agony of a slow and tortuous death, but also because crucifixion was considered a death sentence given to the most infamous criminals. But Jesus, knowing far ahead of time that fate awaited Him, willingly went along with it, “despising the shame.” That means instead of allowing the shame of His situation to be superior in His mind, He thought instead of “the joy set before Him.” To Jesus, the end in view was well worth the suffering and the shame required to achieve it. That “end in view” was the forgiveness of our sins and eternal bliss through our relationship with Him, starting the moment we said “yes” to Him.
“…for the joy set before Him [Jesus] endured the cross, despising the shame…” (Hebrews 12:2)
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