Instead He Suffered (pt.1)

Jesus became a man. Wrapped Himself in flesh. Infinite Divine. Limited to breath.
That brings comfort right now. Jesus became a man. He was tempted. He suffered. He shared in our humanity so that He could destroy death. And this is where my security lies - in the hands of a God who willingly humbled Himself -wrapped Himself in skin- foregoing His garments of glory and became one of us. He suffered when He so easily could've let it all go and clothe Himself in the glory that is due His Name.

Instead He suffered.
He shared in our humanity -every part of it. He suffered when He was tempted. He experienced physical pain and heartache. His whole crew -best men- deserted Him. And then the unspeakable happened -complete separation from the Father. Not just a physical separation, no, complete darkness.

Complete agony.

Right now there is so much comfort in that.

There's so much pain and suffering. There is so much striving.
Self-inflicted wounds birthed by sin, rebellion, doubt, insecurities and fears.
Wounds bestowed by relationships, empty words and neglected promises.

Oh, how Jesus is able to sympathize.

There is so much death. Our culture celebrates death. We celebrate darkness. We celebrate separation and rebellion of God.

And so death consumes us.

It is everywhere -universities, media, pop culture- everywhere we are instructed to live to make a name for ourselves...and this is not life.

To die is gain.

Oh, that my flesh would sink to the grave.

There is so much death disguised as life. If only our eyes could see. And death is constantly trying to overtake us (but it cannot win, it's defeat has already been secured by the Blood of Jesus).

Death. Pain. Sorrow. Affliction.

My heart cries to be clothed with my heavenly garments and home with Jesus.

Darkness creeps closer and closer. But Beloved, it shall not overtake you.

BELOVED-it SHALL NOT overcome you!

Amen. And even so - come, Lord Jesus, come.
Maranatha.