Father figures play such important roles in child development. The presence or absence of them can affect a child’s overall experience here on earth. The quality of such father figures can determine to a large extent, the way the child turns out. That said. Is the idea of your earthly father messing with your knowledge of God? Has he become this person who is never there for you and who never cares about you? Or this person who always punishes you and makes you feel guilty or unworthy? Let’s take a look!
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.
Photo Credit: Tenor.com
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.
It was a Thursday, and I had just transferred files from a good ol’ hard drive. That hard drive had seen us through the various changes from different devices. As I explored my documents, I stumbled upon the picture folder. With a sinister laugh, I knew my friends were not going to like what came next.
One day you’ll wake up with a smile on your face. Your alarm clock would not disrupt your 7-hour sleep streak and you’ll feel more refreshed than ever. You’ll look at your empty to-do-list, and instead of feeling like an underachiever, you’ll feel hopeful. For in that blank page, you know there are endless possibilities!
But first, you must believe in the magic of new beginnings.
A friend asked me what my expectations for 2022 were, and I hesitated. Almost afraid to say anything for fear that it will not happen (again). But before I give you the full gist, let me first congratulate you for making it to the new year!
Woman. I only started understanding the gravity of that word as I transitioned to a young adult. She embodies what most of us will never fully comprehend. Her strength is subtle, yet evident. She goes through so many changes in all areas of life. She makes nature complete. Without her, there is no continuation of the human race.
Dainty M. 