What does embracing our humanity mean?
Old Testament theologian Walter Bruggeman, in his book on the Hebrew prophet Jeremiah, indicates that the passage 22:16 : "He cared for the poor and the needy; is not that what it means to know me?" informs us that "It's not just that caring for the needy acquaints you with God, but caring for the needy is God."
So Jesus listens to God (draws closer?) by making our pains and struggles a part of Himself.
Do we draw closer to God by making His pains and struggles a part of us?
Ever use the phrase "I'm only human"?
Maybe we should consider that we, like Jesus are fully human.
Our capability for drawing closer to God may have less to do with our ability to be better and do more than our willingness to take on the suffering of the poor.
We begin to have eternal life when we begin to live eternally.
Amen. I think that's why prayer with others has become so important to me, that in these times I share in the sufferings (and peace and joys).
ReplyDeleteThank you for this reminder that the poor are not just the "poor in spirit". I need people like you to pull me out of the sanctuary and prayer room. :-)