Joy in Grace, Not Gifts

The disciples return from their first missionary endeavor and report their success to Jesus. The disciples are rejoicing over the power and authority they displayed in the casting out of demons. Jesus' response is to correct this misplaced joy. If the disciples were to endure a lifetime of faithful ministry, He knew their joy couldn't be found in temporary ministry success, but in something eternal. He reorients their thinking to focus on the truth that their names have been written in heaven. That is the place of true joy, and one that will last.