[Based upon Jesus’ model of suffering for us…]
Then shouldn’t we also be the first ones to lay down our lives for others? Shouldn’t we also let someone else benefit from our suffering? Those who are forgiven much love much (Luke 7:47), and those who are the recipients of the benefits of suffering should be the first in line to suffer for others. Our love for and devotion to Christ, coupled with our desire to follow His example, should compel us to suffer on others’ behalves with enthusiasm–with gusto.
–Anonymous, Embracing Obscurity
Gusto is a strange word. And not one we probably use very often.
But I like how the author used it here, indicating that we should suffer on the behalf of others with enthusiasm and gusto. It seems such a foreign idea to us — To be enthusiastic to suffer.
And yet…
We see suffering with gusto in Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross.
We see suffering with gusto in the apostles who rejoiced that they had been counted worthy to be beaten and suffer public disgrace due to the name of Jesus.
We see suffering with gusto in many of the martyrs who willingly died for their faith in Jesus.
And we are called to be enthusiastic to suffer for the Name and cause of Jesus.
May we suffer with gusto for Him and His Kingdom.