Jesus Christ, the Suffering Man

Thursday, April 10, 2025

Theme: "Jesus Christ, the Suffering Man."

Text: Psalm 22:12-22

22:12 Do not be far from me when trouble is near, when no one comes to my help! 22:13 Many bulls are around me, the bulls of Bashan have surrounded me. 22:14 They have opened their mouths against me, like a lion that rips and roars. 22:15 I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint; my heart is like wax, it melts in my bowels. 22:16 My strength is dried up like clay, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth; you have reduced me to the dust of death. 22:17 For dogs surround me, a band of wicked men prowl around me; they have pierced my hands and my feet. 22:18 I could count all my bones; but they look and see me; 22:19 They divide my garments among them, and cast lots for my vesture. 22:20 But you, O Lord, do not depart far away; you are my strength; come quickly to my aid. 22:21 Deliver my soul from the sword, my life from the power of dogs. 22:22 Save me from the lion's mouth; deliver me from the horns of the ox.

Let us remember:

This psalm leaves no room for joy except that which is implicit at the end of this undeserved controversy. It is difficult to endure repeated atrocities without cause. With a bruised heart and a soul in despondency, the sacrificed one cries out to God to seek his usual compassionate gaze. Burdened with pain and sorrow, he counts on the faithfulness of the Father to put an end to this season of humiliation. It is obvious that Jesus did not slump, he did not weaken, he persevered in his mission. He never ceased to rely on God; waiting for his help. David said it in these terms: "Lord, do not depart! You who are my strength, come quickly to my aid! Protect my soul from the sword, my life from the power of dogs! Save me from the mouth of the lion and from the horns of the buffalo!" The end of this supplication is very pleasant because it announces trust in God. David, very lucid, announced Jesus as the suffering man. The suffering of Jesus should not be compared to any other human suffering, for his was endured for his innocence and for the benefit of humanity steeped in sin. David even saw Jesus's garments being divided by casting lots. Instead of seeing Jesus, the Father saw only the sin that had beset Jesus, but his obedience, even in a state of suffering, made all the difference. Have a wonderful Thursday. Amen.

Alain Louz.-