March 26th - Reflection

Reading

Hebrews 2:10-18 (NRSV)
Jesus' suffering binds him to humankind

It was fitting that God, for whom and through whom all things exist, in bringing many children to glory, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For the one who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one Father. For this reason Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters, saying,
"I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters,
in the midst of the congregation I will praise you."
And again,
"I will put my trust in him."
And again,
"Here am I and the children whom God has given me."

Since, therefore, the children share flesh and blood, he himself likewise shared the same things, so that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by the fear of death. For it is clear that he did not come to help angels, but the descendants of Abraham. Therefore he had to become like his brothers and sisters in every respect, so that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make a sacrifice of atonement for the sins of the people. Because he himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.

Reflection

Jesus knows what it's like to be me. Huh? Why would he want to know what it's like to be me? I'm not sure about that, but I think that it has to do with his deep love for me. He loves me so much that he wanted to know what it was like to be me. And more than that, he wants to take on my sin for me... he wants to take on death for me... he wants to be tested like me... and he died for me. Jesus knows what it's like to be me and is able and willing to help, and has helped. Jesus has shown compassion and love for me. And that "for me" applies to a corporate "for us" as well. Thanks be to God!

Prayer

Thank you, Jesus. --- Amen