We are a joyful community of disciples proclaiming the Good News and inviting all people to encounter the love and mercy of Jesus Christ.
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin.”
(Hebrews 4:15)
Christ Knows Our Pain
I once gave a homily on Good Friday, based on these three points: 1) God knows hurt, 2) God knows your hurts, and 3) God knows your hurts won’t last.
As we stop and reflect upon Jesus’ suffering, death, and burial, we still refer to this day as “Good Friday,” because of the good that came from it and in spite of it. We also call it “Good Friday” because of the hope that comes from knowing that Jesus also experienced temptations, disappointments, betrayals, and pain. It would be very difficult to follow him if he had no practical knowledge of our sufferings.
At some point today, I hope you will take a little quiet time and reflect upon Jesus on the cross. During your time of reflection, place your own hurts, your own struggles, on the cross with him. After all, God knows hurt. God knows your hurts. And just as the crucifixion eventually gave way to the resurrection, God knows your hurts won’t last!
As we stop and reflect upon Jesus’ suffering, death, and burial, we still refer to this day as “Good Friday,” because of the good that came from it and in spite of it. We also call it “Good Friday” because of the hope that comes from knowing that Jesus also experienced temptations, disappointments, betrayals, and pain. It would be very difficult to follow him if he had no practical knowledge of our sufferings.
At some point today, I hope you will take a little quiet time and reflect upon Jesus on the cross. During your time of reflection, place your own hurts, your own struggles, on the cross with him. After all, God knows hurt. God knows your hurts. And just as the crucifixion eventually gave way to the resurrection, God knows your hurts won’t last!
What pain do I need to hand over to Jesus?
Lord Jesus, thank you for giving us the greatest gift of all, by laying down your life on the cross for our salvation. Amen.
Reflection by:
Deacon Rick Wells was ordained for the Diocese of St. Petersburg in 1997. A former Methodist, he was received into the Catholic faith in 1988. He currently works as Chancellor for the Diocese and serves at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Clearwater. Deacon Rick and his wife Barbara have been happily married for 35 years.