Lenten Devotional Day Sixteen
Yesterday we looked at the Cross through the lens of its cost, trying to grow in appreciation for the penalty Jesus paid on our behalf. Today I want to consider a different aspect of the Cross. I want us to reflect on Jesus’ physical and emotional suffering and how He can relate to our pain.
As you reflect on your life, what has been hardest? Have you faced a difficult diagnosis? Have you endured chronic physical pain? Have you experienced the loss of someone dear to you? Or maybe you have been rejected, or have an addict in your family. If trauma has not yet touched your life, it probably will at some point. We live in a fallen world with a great deal of pain.
C.S. Lewis wrote a book called The Problem of Pain which I recommend, but the quote he uses to open the book is from George MacDonald.
The Son of God suffered unto the death, not that men might not suffer, but that their sufferings might be like His.
The Cross provides atonement, but it is not a shield against pain. We can be brittle clay in His hands and fight Him in our suffering, or we can see Him in it and stay supple and yielding. Thankfully our tribulations are temporary and pale when compared to eternal glory that is promised us.
Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. Hebrews 2:14-15
Digging Deeper:
What is the issue that is most challenging in your life right now? Have you pondered how Jesus can relate?
Has past suffering in your life brought you closer to God? Do you expect to have suffering in your life? Or does it take you by surprise? Sometimes we need to remind ourselves that Jesus was unambiguous: “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)