Wednesday, January 11, 2017

Wednesday of the First Week in Ordinary Time

(Hebrews 2:14-18; Mark 1:29-39)

Theologians often think of suffering as a test.  In this way they avoid liking God to a harsh judge much less to a capricious ogre.  If God tests humans through suffering, He arouses their natural desire to do well.  Eternal life then becomes a prize for which humans are proved worthy.  The gifted theologian who composed the Letter to the Hebrews certainly considered suffering in this way.

What is truly remarkable about the Letter to the Hebrews, however, is its balanced way of seeing Christ.  He is both human and divine who comes to help his siblings in need.  He realizes that some will struggle mightily to endure suffering. So he prays his Father God will show them mercy.


We also should consider Jesus as one of us.  He knows our pain and is ready to respond to our call for help.  We need to follow his example so that we never forget that he loves us.