1st Week in Ordinary Time : Wednesday 13th January 2021

We can never say that Jesus doesn’t understand us. He can and does understand us because he is one of us. As one who was fully human and divine, he was tested in every way — and he remained faithful even in the face of temptations. He knew pain, joy, sorrow, disappointment, betrayal by others, fatigue, hunger, and thirst. Because of this, he is our compassionate, high priest, to whom we can always turn to as a friend and brother. Our own struggle and suffering should make us sympathetic towards others — we pass along the gift that Jesus gives us.

Many ill or demon-possessed people came to Jesus when they heard about his healings and miracles. They were desperate, for he brought a glimmer of hope into their lives. But there were so many — it seemed that he would be overwhelmed. He commanded the demons to remain silent because they knew who he was and why he had come. Jesus preferred to do his work quietly and personally — no media campaigns for him. Giving   others hope and easing their sufferings and burdens is a Christ-like expression of compassion, and that is our mission as those who claim the name of Christian.

Lord, transform my struggles into compassion for others.