I am a Jesus pusher!!! “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matthew 5:12). Jesus begins with the Greek word “chairo,” translated rejoice. This is a “word group” coming from the rood word “char.” “Chara” is a noun; it is the Greek word for “joy.” “Chairo” is the verb for “rejoice.” We must also note that “charis” is the Greek word for “grace.” From this comes the verb “charizomai” meaning “to bestow favor.” “Charisma” also comes from this root word. Therefore, there is a connection between “rejoicing” and “grace.” We dwell in a state of grace! Mercy is consistently ours (Matthew 5:7). Moment by moment we receive and give mercy. It is a state of grace in which we rejoice. We are pure in heart for we embrace Him (Matthew 5:8). Oh, how He has given Himself to us. In the consistent vision of His presence, we rejoice; oh, what grace we receive! To live in peace and extend it to our troubled world is such a privilege (Matthew 5:9). It is reality because we belong to Him as “sons.” He is our peace. Peace is not the removal of conflict, but the embrace of His person. Rejoice, Rejoice, Rejoice in His grace! Do difficulties confront us because of this “righteousness?” They certainly do! How can we not continue in joy? Does slander come against us for His sake? Yes, there is a spiritual war actively battling in our lives. However, that battle is minor in contrast to Jesus! Rejoice! Is there a cross at the heart of our experience in Him? After experiencing Him, how can we not eagerly participate in the “fellowship of His suffering?” I am a Jesus pusher!!!