“Do not be far from Me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help. Many bulls surround Me; strong bulls of Bashan encircle Me. Roaring lions that tear their prey open their mouths wide against Me. I am poured out like water, and all My bones are out of joint. My heart has turned to wax; it has melted within Me. My mouth is dried up like a potsherd, and My tongue sticks to the roof of My mouth; you lay Me in the dust of death. Dogs surround Me, a pack of villains encircles me; they pierce MY HANDS and MY FEET. All My bones are on display; people stare and gloat over Me. They DIVIDE MY CLOTHES AMONG THEM and CAST LOTS FOR MY GARMENT.” [1]
Who wants God to be far from them when surrounded by people who are like raging bulls, roaring lions, and gross dogs. Our Lord prayed for His Father to be near Him. He felt His life being poured out. His heart was melting like hot wax. They pierced His hands and feet right through. They cared for His garment, but not for Him.
“For this reason He (Jesus Christ) had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that He might become a merciful and faithful High Priest in service to God, and that He might make atonement for the sins of the people. Because He Himself suffered when He was tempted, He is able to help those who are being tempted.” [2]
What a painful way to become a merciful and faithful high priest! But nevertheless, He made atonement for our sins. And He helps when we are tempted during trials.
“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have One (Jesus Christ) who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet He did not sin.” [3]
Hallelujah! What a Savior! “Thank You Lord Jesus for Your great passion for us. I pray that we would be filled with passion for You, and for the people You died for.”
[1] Psalm 22:11-18
[2] Hebrews 2:17-18
[3] Hebrews 4:15
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