Jesus is the Son of God, but we are God’s children. We have been redeemed through Jesus’ death and resurrection. What does that mean to you?
We are indeed human beings with human weaknesses, failures, struggles, and limitations. Jesus became one of us so he could understand and so that we could trust him. The illustration used in yesterday’s reading about the birds is still fresh in my mind.
I have enjoyed many years of recovery ministry, and verse 18 has always been special to me. “Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.” Jesus stands ready to be our friend and help us through whatever storm we are facing.
Jesus also broke the power of death when he died on the cross. What should have been obvious to me is Jesus had to be human to die. I hadn’t really ever connected those dots to realize God couldn’t die. Jesus was not just human but God. Because of that sacrifice, we are free to have everlasting life. To us, broken sinners, that is quite a gift.
Without Jesus, our sins hold us back and separate us from our creator. The farther we stray, the more we get lost. We lose our connection to God and begin to thrash about in this life. Where is the safety net or the life preserver, we wonder? Jesus is the answer. He is life-saving and ready to reconcile us to God. Our sins have been washed away.
When we stay connected and look to God for our needs, he will supply. Will we get everything our hearts desire? No, probably not. We tend to be selfish and want things we don’t need. We’re human after all. I’ve heard people use excuses for not following Jesus because they didn’t get what they prayed for. Maybe they didn’t get the raise at work, or the loan on the expensive car, or a clean bill of health. We should be asking God what he wants for us.
Many others fear death. I agree that what happens to us after we die is unknown. Sure, we’ve heard people who have died and been resuscitated tell of their experience. But when we think of our own mortality, many of us are afraid. Even those who believe in Jesus’ resurrection may tremble a bit. If that’s you, remember Jesus died so we no longer have to be a slave to fear of death. We have an inheritance in heaven waiting for us when we put our trust in Jesus.
Let’s pray. Lord, there are things in this world that frighten me. I know you are standing mightily beside me to keep me safe. I am confident that when the time comes for me to leave this world I will be greeted by you and enfolded in your loving arms. You have set forth a mission for me on this earth, and I want to be the best steward of all that you have entrusted to me. Bless my interactions this day. Thank you for giving me your words when I don’t know what to say. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
