In Greek philosopher Plato’s work titled Philebus, we read the dialogue between Socrates, Protarchus, and Philebus. Among the things they discuss are those things that Philebus says brings a person enjoyment, pleasure and delight, and how good they are to every living being. But Socrates disagrees, and contends that wisdom, intelligence, memory, fact-based opinion and sound reasoning are much more desirable than those mentioned by Philebus. Dr. Benjamin Jewett, who translated this work, says in his introduction that we can learn this from their conversation: “The higher the view which men take of life, the more they lose sight of their own pleasure or interest. True religion is not working for a reward only, but is ready to work equally without a reward. It is not ‘doing the will of God for the sake of eternal happiness,’ but doing the will of God because it is best, whether rewarded or unrewarded. And this applies to others as well as to ourselves. For he who sacrifices himself for the good of others, does not sacrifice himself that they may be saved from the persecution which he endures for their sake, but rather that they in their turn may be able to undergo similar sufferings, and like him stand fast in the truth. To promote their happiness is not his first object, but to elevate their moral nature. Both in his own case and that of others there may be happiness in the distance, but if there were no happiness he would equally act as he does.” Certainly there was no pleasure in what our Lord went through in order to endure the shame and agony of the cross. But because of His willingness to suffer for our sake, He gave us an example to follow when we must make the choice between enjoyment, pleasure and delight for ourselves, but choose rather to use our intelligence, memory, fact-based opinion and sound reasoning in order to help others gain access to knowing and understanding more about God’s love, grace and mercy. Of course this all comes with a price that may include inconvenience, suffering and even sacrifice. Jesus didn’t hesitate, should we?