Jesus is called the author and finisher of our faith. This was demonstrated through the joy He experienced in laying down His life for us. The joy wasn't in the cross or the fact His life was the price being paid. He understood and demonstrated for us that to sacrifice out of love is the ultimate expression of it. He valued His life, but valued fellowship with His Father and restoration with His bride even more valuable. It wasn't done out of selfish gain, but out of the perfect character that remains the reason we have a hope of Heaven to begin with.