I like to think of how human Jesus was while he was here on earth. This helps me deal better with my shortcomings and frustrations. It also helps me process my feelings and emotions. It is reassuring to know there’s someone in Heaven right now, pleading my case because He knows what it means to be human. So let’s look at some of the ways Jesus’ humanity endears us to him.

First, I see a man who was so worried about his impending death, so he calls three of his best friends to be with him in this vulnerable time. Of course, the friends sleep off and don’t join him in his heart-wrenching prayers.

Uggh! We all know how disappointing it can be when the friends you trust don’t show up for you the way you would want them to. This was a pretty difficult time for Jesus. Just reading the verses where he is sorrowful and in deep distress because of this inevitable event (his death on the cross), makes me connect more and more to his humanity. He felt pain. He felt sad. He felt how it really was to be human.

Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”

Matthew 26:39

Second, was a man on the cross, going through this agonizing, soul-crushing moment. I mean, have we even thought about the Middle Eastern sun? Phew! And while he’s going through that, he says ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ This was certainly as ‘human’ as it gets! We always think God has abandoned us. There are times when it feels like he’s so far away that he can’t see or hear us. And it’s really comforting to see Jesus feeling this way too. It’s like, I’m not alone after all!

Third, and important to me, Jesus loved breakfast food. I mean, have you seen how many times bread was mentioned? I love that part after he resurrected where he called out to his friends to come and eat (after those ones were still struggling to catch fish). Jesus lived a life of ease (not hustle). He knew that all things work together for our good. So child, break some bread and relax in God’s finished work.

Dear human, I know how hard it is to be human. But knowing Jesus went through all of these and understands our weaknesses is certainly heartwarming. Talk to him whenever you feel like He has abandoned you. Because guess what? He never did! He’s right there with you.

Happy Easter!

Love,

M.