Shared Pain

“This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same testings we do.” (Hebrews 4:15 NIV)

The last part of a marathon can be brutal. One would think that each runner would just look out for himself and try to get to the finish as quickly as possible.  However, I have noticed most runners are selfless and generous to each other in the midst of this period of suffering. Why? Pain makes us pay attention and be empathetic to others in similar circumstances. This creates bonds of solidarity and loyalty.

Jesus is always near--during good times and bad. However, comfort lulls us into complacency while adversity gives us a heightened sense of awareness. Jesus has gone through the human experience. He was humiliated, tortured, and crucified. When we are in agony, He suffers alongside us. As we share in His pain and He in ours, we become one with Jesus. We sense His empathy and love. This forges deeper bonds of commitment and understanding.