Rediscovering Joy

I have started to read Total Truth, by Nancy Pearcey. I am only in the 1st chapter and am enjoying it. However, I do know it will be a slow read, because I have so much else that I need to read. Looking ahead in the book I noticed title for chapter 2, Rediscovering Joy. I am unsure what Dr. Pearcey will write about in that chapter, but the title did resonate with me, for I sense that the church has lost its joy.
For me the two most important passages in Scripture regarding Joy are found in 1 John 1:3-4 and Hebrews 12:2. Look at the latter, "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." What was the joy that Christ saw as He approached the cross? Whatever it was motivated Him to take the beatings, the nails, the torture, and the death. Whatever the joy was motivated Him to endure all that for our sakes. What then was this joy? I think it was that He saw those saved, who would live with Him forever, because of their trust in Him and His finished work, death and resurrection.
Then in 1 John 1:3, 4 we read, "That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. (4) And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full." Our joy is realized when we realize that through faith in Christ we have fellowship with God and with all believers. Many walk this world seeking intimacy and purpose. They search for it in many ways: work, education, relationships, and accomplishments. However, the believer comes to know that true intimacy and purpose is found in Jesus Christ. That understanding should bring joy to all of us.
I don't think that Dr. Pearcey will approach joy from this direction, but I do look forward to reading her views. In the meantime, I hope that these two facts: the realization that Christ endured the cross because of the joy He would experience at your salvation, and the fact that our joy can be found in our fellowship with God and other believers, will encourage you.
-Mark