Jesus
One of my favorite things about my job are the students. I work at a college and I love the opportunity to just know them. Of course, like any other job, tasks can be mundane, tedious, and let’s be real, boring. But what keeps me going everyday are the conversations I get to have with these young adults. We mostly talk about the duties related to my position, but organically, it always leads to something deeper.
I had a conversation with a student once and she said to me, “You are very personal and relatable.” I was taken back by her honesty and to me it was a huge compliment, so I responded to my own surprise, “thank you very much, I get it from my Heavenly Father.” I’m pretty darn proud that I possess that attribute of His, because it is honestly my favorite thing about Him.
Let’s think about this for a bit. God is all powerful and all knowing. He is everywhere at once. He created the stars you see and the stars you don’t see. He is the Alpha and the Omega, perfect and holy; God is Grand. And at the SAME TIME, He is personal; He is one on one, intimate and relational. He meets you where you are, just as you are.
God is so personal, that He sent Jesus.
You can’t get more personal than Jesus.
We all have our strengths and weaknesses. Listening is a strength of mine. As I listen, most of the time I am able to genuinely understand and sympathize. I think that is why I am able to connect with people so well. Jesus on the other hand, is on another level; He is able to empathize.
“He understands humanity, for as a Man, our magnificent King-Priest was tempted in every way just as we are, and conquered sin. So now we come freely and boldly to where love is enthroned, to receive mercy’s kiss and discover the grace we urgently need to strengthen us in our time of weakness.” Hebrews 4:15-16 The Passion Translation (TPT)
Jesus is able to empathize with our weaknesses. He knows how it feels to be tempted. He knows how it feels to be rejected, lonely, frustrated, and wanting to quit. But He never gave in and disobeyed. How cool is that?
It’s simply easier to talk to someone who understands what you are going through. There is a level of comfort there. You feel safe and at peace. And free to be yourself, saying whatever! I am more apt to be vulnerable with someone who I can relate to, that’s Jesus.
It’s interesting the people that come in and out of my office. They come from all walks of life, from different backgrounds and upbringings. One conversation can be completely different from the next. I’m surprised by the stories I hear from these students. Especially the ones that have overcome any kind of obstacle to get where they are, especially at such a young age. I think it’s cool that the school (that rhymed) that I work for attracts such a demographic.
It amazes me the kinds of people Jesus interacted with, who He chose to be around. His friend group was definitely more diverse than mine. Not to mention who he intentionally sat down and had dinner with. It ranged from doctors, to tax collectors, to prostitutes. But not only that, the people He healed. No one is too sick or too broken for Him to come to you, just as you are, and change your life.
I can honestly say I have built friendships here. Any kind of relationship takes sacrifice. Just think of the things you do for your friends. I gave a friend a ride, some clothes, and maybe money (reluctantly), but have you ever thought about the extent of giving your life? Yeah, me neither.
“For the greatest love of all is a love that sacrifices all. And this great love is demonstrated when a person sacrifices his life for his friends.” John 15:13 The Passion Translation (TPT)
I’m sure Jesus gave all of the above to his friends, and He also gave His life. And not just for His friends at the time, but for you and I too. All so we can have a personal relationship with God, and to one day see Him fully.
- mal
